From Agaju Madugba, Katsina
The Katsina Concerned Citizens for Good Governance (KCCGG) says the Federal Government should take measures to curb what it described as undue foreign interference in Nigeria’s domestic affairs.
The group linked the recent incident when a cross section of youths displayed flags of some other countries during the nationwide hunger protests, to failure on the part of the Federal Government to adequately guard the nation’s critical foundation.
The group in a statement on Friday explained that, “securing Nigeria’s sovereignty requires strengthening national institutions, enhancing transparency and fostering a united front against external pressures.”
The statement signed by the KCCGG Chairman, Comrade Yakubu Muhammed, said that, “by taking decisive action to curb foreign interference, the Nigerian government can reinforce its sovereignty, restore public confidence and create a more resilient framework for governance.
“Foreign governments’ interference in Nigeria’s internal affairs manifests in various ways but the primary aim is to destabilize Nigeria’s political landscape.
“Such actions not only erode national sovereignty but also aggravate existing insecurity and development.
“Recent developments in the country particularly, after the national protests, pose serious threats to Nigeria as a nation. “Thus, the coalition of civil society groups in Katsina, under the auspices of Katsina Concerned Citizen for Good Governance (KCCGG) expresses deep concern over recent incidents involving foreign nationals that threaten the sovereignty and integrity of our dear nation.
“In particular, the incidents involve individuals who have been arrested for actions potentially harmful to Nigeria and those who have displayed disrespect by raising foreign flags, notably the Russian flag, while desecrating the Nigerian flag.
“These actions are a direct affront to the peace, security and values of Nigeria, highlighting the need for a decisive response to uphold national dignity and sovereignty.
“Consequently, the KCCGG calls on the Federal Government to investigate all foreign nationals arrested in connection with these activities
“They should be prosecuted in competent courts of jurisdiction to demonstrate Nigeria’s zero-tolerance policy for any forms of disrespect or threat to its national sovereignty.
“The Federal Government should monitor activities of foreign nationals and their governments as well as improve security around sensitive national symbols and infrastructure.
“The KCCGG acknowledges that there is economic hardship in the country and we urge federal and state governments to revisit economic policies and provide relief to the teeming masses.”