General Christopher Musa, the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) of Nigeria, has strongly condemned the act of displaying Russian flags by protesters in various Nigerian cities, describing it as a serious offense of treason. His comments came after a high-level security meeting convened by President Bola Tinubu at the State House in Abuja. The meeting was convened in response to ongoing nationwide protests against economic hardship and poor governance in the country.
During the meeting, the issue of protesters hoisting Russian flags in northern states such as Kano, Kaduna, Niger, Zamfara, and Plateau was a key topic of discussion. General Musa expressed grave concerns over this development, emphasizing that such actions undermine Nigerian sovereignty and stability. He warned that those involved in these activities would face severe legal consequences, asserting that the display of foreign flags is completely unacceptable and will be treated as a treasonable offense.
General Musa noted that the protests, which began as peaceful demonstrations, have increasingly been taken over by criminal elements. These individuals have been involved in looting, theft, and other disruptive activities, exploiting the situation for their own gain. He pointed out that while the initial intention of the protests might have been legitimate, the current situation has deteriorated into widespread chaos. The use of foreign flags during these protests further exacerbates the situation and challenges the country’s sovereignty.
He highlighted that some of the participants, particularly youths, are being manipulated by others who are orchestrating these actions. The authorities are actively working to identify and hold accountable those who are behind the sponsorship of these provocative displays. General Musa made it clear that the government would not tolerate any attempts to disrupt public order or undermine national unity.
In addition to addressing the issue of foreign flags, General Musa also responded to concerns about potential coup attempts. He assured the public that Nigeria’s democracy is secure and that all security agencies are fully committed to defending democratic principles. He emphasized that there is no room for any actions aimed at disrupting the democratic process or effecting a change of government through undemocratic means.
Regarding allegations that some military personnel were involved in looting during the protests, General Musa clarified that these claims have been thoroughly investigated and found to be baseless. He assured the public that no members of the armed forces were implicated in such activities, and any misconceptions regarding their involvement have been addressed.
The security meeting, attended by Vice President Kashim Shettima, Chief of Staff Femi Gbajabiamila, National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu, and other key security officials, aimed to present a unified response to the current security challenges. General Musa reaffirmed the commitment of the security forces to maintaining peace and order in Nigeria. He emphasized that any actions that threaten the country’s stability or sovereignty will be met with firm and decisive action.
General Musa’s statements underscore the seriousness with which the Nigerian government is addressing the current protests and associated criminal activities. The CDS has made it clear that the use of foreign flags in protests, manipulation of youths, and any attempts to undermine democracy will be dealt with firmly, ensuring that Nigeria’s sovereignty and democratic institutions remain intact.
