Nigeria Protests: Over 40 Arrested for Displaying Russian Flags Amid Unrest
About 40 individuals were detained in northern Nigeria for waving Russian flags during anti-government protests addressing high living costs. The military labeled this display as treasonous, amid reports of at least seven deaths and over 700 arrests nationwide. Protests are largely fueled by dissatisfaction with President Bola Tinubu’s policies, particularly the removal of a fuel subsidy causing economic strain.
Approximately 40 individuals were detained in northern Nigeria for displaying the Russian national flag during ongoing protests against rising living costs and perceived poor governance. The military chief, Christopher Musa, declared that such acts constitute a treasonable offense. Over the past six days of protests, at least seven fatalities have been reported, and more than 700 arrests have occurred. Demonstrators expressed their grievances with chants about hunger, while a minority exhibited support for Russian President Vladimir Putin.
Some protesters urged Moscow to intervene in what they described as dire conditions. The arrests seem aimed at diminishing any burgeoning support for Russia in Nigeria, a significant oil producer with ties to Western allies. Neighboring countries in West Africa, like Niger, have shifted allegiances from the West toward Russia following military coups, exacerbating dissatisfaction with civilian governments that critics blame for failing to address corruption and insecurity.
Following his election in May 2023, President Bola Tinubu has faced declining approval ratings amidst rising living costs, attributed in part to the elimination of a fuel subsidy that significantly increased pump prices. Tinubu has appealed for patience, asserting that his policies will eventually yield positive results, while also holding discussions with security personnel regarding the protests.
On Monday, a large turnout occurred in Kaduna and Zamfara states, leading to 39 arrests including a tailor involved in crafting the foreign flags. Numerous Russian flags, alongside a Chinese flag, were seized, and a curfew has been implemented in Kaduna to maintain order. Additionally, reports indicated that several tailors in Kano state were apprehended for producing flags. The Nigerian secret service is currently investigating the situation, including the detention of alleged sponsors.
Rights organization Amnesty International reported 13 deaths since the protests commenced, accusing security forces of excessive violence against demonstrators. President Tinubu emphasized his administration’s commitment to addressing protesters’ issues, yet mentioned that certain protests had been exploited by looters, asserting that halting unrest could facilitate dialogue.
Recent unrest in Nigeria has been largely driven by widespread dissatisfaction with economic conditions, primarily the sharp rise in the cost of living following the removal of the fuel subsidy by President Bola Tinubu. This decision has drawn significant criticism as citizens grapple with increased expenses for basic needs. Protests have spiraled into a national movement, with participants expressing frustration over governance issues and rising poverty. The presence of Russian flags among some demonstrators highlights a complex geopolitical shift in the region, influenced by military coups in neighboring countries and moving sentiments towards Russia amid dissatisfaction with Western-backed governments.
In summary, the ongoing protests in Nigeria are fueled by economic hardship and discontent with government policies. The government’s swift response, including arrests and proclamations against displaying foreign flags, indicates heightened tensions. As citizens express their demands for better governance and living conditions, the situation remains volatile, and the government’s challenge will be to navigate these protests while addressing the fundamental issues raised by the populace.
Original Source: www.bbc.com
