The Russian Embassy in Nigeria has issued a response to the use of Russian flags by protesters in northern Nigeria. Demonstrators were seen marching through the streets, waving Russian flags and chanting slogans, while some held placards with various messages.
In a statement released on Monday, August 5, the embassy addressed the situation: “The Embassy has noted the reports in Nigerian media and the circulation of videos and images in digital media depicting protesters in northern states of the country carrying Russian flags and chanting slogans to Russian President Vladimir Putin. The Government of the Russian Federation as well as any Russian officials are not involved in these activities and do not coordinate them in any way.”
The embassy emphasized Russia’s stance on non-interference in the internal affairs of other nations. “As always, we emphasize that Russia does not interfere in the domestic affairs of foreign states, including Nigeria. These intentions of some protesters to wave Russian flags are personal choices of individuals, and they do not reflect any official position or policy of the Russian Government on the issue,” the statement continued.
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Russia reaffirmed its respect for Nigerian democracy and the right to peaceful demonstrations within the framework of Nigerian law. “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,” the embassy concluded.
The embassy’s statement aims to clarify Russia’s position and distance the government from the actions of the protesters, reinforcing the principle of non-interference in Nigeria’s domestic matters.
