Russia denies Nigerian allegations of interference in anti-government protests

Russia has denied Nigerian allegations of involvement in the recent anti-government protests in Nigeria.

The Russian Embassy in Nigeria said in a statement on Wednesday that “the government of the Russian Federation, as well as any officials, are not involved in these activities and do not coordinate them in any way.”

The embassy added that “as always, we emphasize that Russia does not interfere in the internal affairs of foreign states, including Nigeria.”

A spokesperson for the Russian Embassy in Abuja confirmed that “the use of Russian flags is a decision of individuals and has nothing to do with Russia’s position. We respect the democratic system in Nigeria and believe that peaceful demonstrations, conducted in accordance with state law, are a manifestation of democracy. However, if peaceful protests lead to violations of peace and stability or violence, we do not support them at all.”

Thousands of Nigerians have been protesting since early August against recent economic measures that have led to the partial end of petrol and electricity subsidies, the devaluation of the currency and inflation rising to its highest level in three decades.

The Nigerian police have arrested several people for preparing and waving Russian flags during antigovernmental protests in northern states.

Nigerian Chief of Defence Staff General Christopher Musa described the waving of a foreign flag during antigovernmental protests as a “treasonous crime”, adding that “we have identified them and we will take serious action against it”.

In the northern states of Borno, Kaduna, Kano and Katsina, protesters were seen waving hundreds of Russian flags, with some calling for a military takeover.