On Monday, the Russian Embassy in Nigeria clarified that its officials are not involved in or coordinating the activities of those waving it flags during the #EndBadGovernanceInNigeria protest.
In a statement issued to journalists in Abuja, the embassy emphasised that neither the Russian government nor its officials have any connection to the protesters’ actions.
The nationwide protests, which began on Thursday, August 1, were organised in response to the hardships faced by citizens across the country.
On Monday, the police reported the arrest of the supplier of the flag and 30 protesters.
Russian Embassy Clarify
In response, the Russian embassy stated: “The Government of the Russian Federation and its officials are not involved in or coordinating these activities in any way.”
People Also Read: Protests: There Is Hunger, Poverty In Nigeria – Adamawa Governor
“As always, we emphasise that Russia does not interfere in the domestic affairs of foreign states, including Nigeria.”
The embassy attributed the use of Russian symbols by protesters to individual decisions, stating that it does not represent any official stance or policy of the government.
“These actions by some protesters to wave Russian flags are personal choices and do not reflect any official position or policy of the Russian Government,” the embassy said.
The statement also expressed respect for Nigeria’s democratic processes, acknowledging that peaceful demonstrations are a legitimate form of democratic expression.
However, the embassy condemned any potential disruptions or acts of violence that might arise from these events.
“We respect Nigerian democracy and believe that peaceful demonstrations in conformity with the Nigerian law are a manifestation of democracy.
“However, should these events lead to any disruptions or acts of violence, we strictly condemn them,” it added.
