By Sabiu Abdullahi
The Russian Embassy in Nigeria has issued a strong denial of any involvement with a group of protesters in northern Nigeria who were seen carrying Russian flags and chanting slogans in support of President Vladimir Putin.
In a statement released on Monday, the embassy noted that Russia respects Nigeria’s sovereignty and does not interfere in its internal affairs.
The statement described the protesters’ actions as “personal choices” that do not reflect any official Russian government policy or position.
The embassy’s denial comes amid concerns about external interference in regional affairs, with Russia accused of involvement in recent political upheavals in several West African countries.
Nigeria’s Chief of Defence, General Chris Musa, has condemned the protesters’ actions as treasonable and warned that they will face the full force of the law.
The incident has sparked a diplomatic row, with Nigeria’s government facing pressure to explain how the protesters obtained Russian flags and what their motivations were.