By Sabiu Abdullahi
The Polish government has refuted claims that its nationals, arrested in Kano, Nigeria, displayed the Russian flag during a protest.
The six students and their lecturer were detained on August 6, along with six Spanish nationals, for allegedly participating in the #EndBadGovernance protest.
Peter Afunanya, spokesperson for the Department of State Services, stated that the Poles were arrested “because of where they were found during the protests and for displaying foreign flags.”
However, the Polish foreign ministry denied this allegation, saying the group “merely took photos” and did not participate in the protest.
The students, who were on an exchange program at Bayero University, Kano, are being held on unclear charges.
The University of Warsaw has made their release a top priority, with the Rector, Alojzy Nowak, in contact with the detainees.
Polish Deputy Foreign Minister Jakub Wisniewski has pleaded for their safe return, expressing skepticism about the Russian flag claim.
“I personally find this claim hard to believe. We are urging for their safe return home, where their loved ones are anxiously waiting for them.”
Former Director General of the Nigerian Institute of International Affairs, Professor Bola Akinterinwa, advised the Polish government to be patient and allow the investigation to be completed.
Meanwhile, the Chairman of the All Progressives Congress in Poland, Omooba Ayoola, has appealed to President Bola Tinubu to facilitate the release of the students and their lecturer.