President Bola Tinubu has instructed security agencies to take decisive action against individuals flying Russian flags in Nigeria. This directive was announced by General Christopher Musa, the Chief of Defence Staff, following the National Security Council meeting, which was convened in response to the ongoing nationwide protests that have escalated into violence in several states.
General Musa explained that while the protests began peacefully, they were quickly hijacked by individuals intent on causing chaos, resulting in widespread looting and disorder. The display of foreign flags, particularly Russian ones, within Nigeria’s borders has been deemed a serious concern and an affront to national sovereignty.
“We are warning in clear terms and the President has also said we should convey this, that we will not accept anybody, any individual flying any foreign flag in Nigeria. That is a treasonable offence, and it will be viewed and treated as such. So, nobody should allow himself to be used by any individual,” Musa stated.
He noted that many of those flying foreign flags were children being manipulated by certain individuals. The authorities have identified the sponsors behind these actions and plan to take stringent measures against them. Musa emphasized that these acts are seen as crossing a red line and will not be tolerated.
“The President is clear on his instructions for us not to accept anyone that wants to disrupt the peace and tranquility of Nigeria,” he said. All security agencies are prepared to defend the country’s democracy and sovereignty against any attempts to destabilize it.
President Tinubu, in a national broadcast, urged the organizers of the protests to suspend their activities due to the violence that has erupted, leading to loss of lives and property damage. He warned that the government would not tolerate actions aimed at undermining democracy and would take necessary steps to maintain order.
The meeting was attended by all the service chiefs and Vice President Kashim Shetima, who discussed the security challenges and measures to address them effectively.