On Wednesday, Nigeria’s Foreign Affairs Minister, Ambassador Yusuf Tuggar, stated that the Federal Government will not tolerate any foreign interference in its domestic affairs. The government has started an investigation into the violence that occurred during recent nationwide protests. Tuggar made these comments in Abuja while updating diplomats on the protests at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
He emphasized that the government would take action against anyone whether domestic or foreign who funded the protests that began last week. During these protests, some demonstrators displayed foreign flags, including those of Russia.
On Tuesday, the police announced they had arrested foreign nationals suspected of supporting the protests. What started as demonstrations against hardship and hunger took a contentious turn, with some protesters in northern states waving Russian flags and chanting for President Tinubu to step down.
Tuggar said the Nigerian government is working hard to address the country’s challenges through various reforms.
However, he stressed that no nation accepts foreign interference in its internal matters, including Nigeria. The government will act against any foreign entities involved in supporting the protests or interfering in Nigeria’s affairs. Nigeria values good relationships with other countries and does not want to harm these relationships.
The Minister also highlighted the government’s efforts to improve socio-economic conditions, such as reducing debt servicing from 97% to 68% and working on food security, job creation, and investment.
He noted that recent social media narratives have threatened national peace and stability, but assured diplomats that the Nigerian government remains committed to protecting everyone, including diplomats, according to international laws.
Additionally, Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, explained that President Tinubu’s administration is focused on correcting past policies and improving Nigeria’s situation, not creating more hardship. The President is committed to implementing reforms to drive growth and enhance citizens’ quality of life.
Idris detailed that the administration has tackled major challenges, such as high debt servicing, widespread poverty, and inadequate infrastructure. The decision to remove the fuel subsidy was difficult but aimed at redirecting funds to essential sectors like healthcare, education, and security.
He acknowledged that removing the fuel subsidy and adjusting foreign exchange rates might cause short-term difficulties, but assured that the government is implementing intervention programs to ease these challenges.
Regarding the protests, Idris acknowledged the right to peaceful assembly but condemned the violence that occurred. He reported incidents of arson, vandalism, and clashes with law enforcement, which resulted in loss of lives and property damage. The government responded quickly to restore order and is committed to preventing future incidents.
Idris assured that the worst is over and that the Federal Government is investigating the violence to bring those responsible to justice.
