The Russian Embassy in Nigeria has denied any involvement in the "End Bad Governance in Nigeria" protests.
Amid the ongoing demonstration
against hunger and bad governance, protesters have been marching on the streets
of northern Nigeria with Russian flags, while chanting slogans.
Russia has been accused of
involvement in recent political upheavals in several West African countries,
including Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger.
The inclusion of Russian flags
during protests in Nigeria sparked concerns about external interference in the
West African country.
However, in a statement on
Monday, August 5, the Russian Embassy in Nigeria emphasised that Russia does
not interfere in the internal affairs of other countries, including Nigeria,
and that the protesters’ actions do not reflect any official Russian government
policy or position.
The statement said, "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.
"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 in the issue.
“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.
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