The Russian Embassy in Nigeria has distanced itself from the usage of the country’s flags by some Nigerians in the ongoing nationwide protest against bad governance in the West African Country.
The protesters, holding Russian flags and chanting slogans, expressed their frustration with the current state of affairs in the country,calling on the military to take over.
In a press statement made available to newsmen, the Russian Embassy in Nigeria said the waiving of its flag by the protesters was a personal decision and did not represent any of its diplomatic policies.
The statement reads: “The Embassy has noted the reports in Nigerian media and the circulation of videos and images in digital media depicting protesters in northern states of the country carrying Russian flags and chanting slogans to Russian President Vladimir Putin.
“The Government of the Russian Federation as well as any Russian official is not involved in these activities and do not coordinate them in any way.
“As always, we emphasise that Russia does not interfere in the domestic affairs of foreign states, including Nigeria. These intentions of some protesters to wave Russian flags are personal choices of individuals, and they do not reflect any official position or policy of the Russian Government in the issue.
“We respect Nigerian democracy and believe that peaceful demonstrations in conformity with the Nigerian law are a manifestation of democracy. However, should these events lead to any disruptions or acts of violence we strictly condemn them.”
