About 40 individuals have been detained in northern Nigeria for waving Russian flags during protests against rising living costs and perceived poor governance. Authorities have also arrested tailors accused of making the flags.
Army chief Christopher Musa has labeled this act as “treasonable,” underscoring that displaying foreign flags is illegal. The nationwide protests, which have lasted six days, have led to at least seven deaths and over 700 arrests. Demonstrators have voiced their frustrations with slogans like “we are hungry,” and some have shown support for Russian President Vladimir Putin, even calling on Moscow for assistance.
The arrests reflect a broader crackdown on any pro-Russian sentiment in Nigeria, a major oil producer and ally of Western nations. The region, including neighbors like Niger, has seen a shift towards Russia following recent military coups and dissatisfaction with Western-backed governments.
President Bola Tinubu, who assumed office in May 2023, has faced criticism for his policies, including the removal of a fuel subsidy that has driven up living costs. He has urged patience, asserting that his policies will eventually improve conditions.
In response to the unrest, Tinubu has called for an end to the protests and met with security officials. Musa emphasized the severity of flying foreign flags, warning that it would be treated as a treasonable offense.
The Russian embassy in Nigeria has disclaimed involvement, noting that the flags were the “personal choices” of protesters and reaffirming Russia’s non-interference in Nigerian affairs.
In response to the protests, a curfew has been imposed in Kaduna, one of several states to take such action. The Nigerian secret service has also detained tailors in Kano for making Russian flags, with investigations ongoing.
Amnesty International reports that 13 people have died since the protests began and accuses security forces of excessive force. Tinubu has pledged to address protester concerns but also claimed that some demonstrations have been compromised by looters.