From Aidoghie Paulinus, Abuja
The Russian Federation has denied any involvement in the ongoing protest in the country.
The Embassy of the Russian Federation in Abuja, in a statement, said it had noted the reports in Nigerian media and the circulation of videos and images in digital media depicting protesters in northern states carrying the Russian flags and chanting slogans to Russian President, Vladimir Putin.
“The Government of the Russian Federation, and Russian officials, are not involved in these activities and do not coordinate them in any way.
“As always, we emphasise that Russia does not interfere in the domestic affairs of foreign states, including Nigeria.”
The Embassy of the Russian Federation further said the intentions of some protesters to wave Russian flags were 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,” the Russian Federation stated.
Also reacting, lawyer and activist, Deji Adeyanju, flayed protesters raising the Russian flag and calling for military coup amidst the ongoing protest in the country.
The convener, Concerned Nigerians, in a terse statement made available to Daily Sun, called on the security agencies to arrest the culprits.
“It is treason to be raising the Russian flag and calling for a military coup. That is not protest, but treason. Security agencies should arrest those doing so.
“While we welcome those who didn’t protest for once under Buhari’s terrible eight years of bad governance, treason is condemnable,” he stated.