The Russian Embassy in Nigeria has officially denied any involvement or interference in the ongoing #EndBadGovernance protests, following reports of protesters in northern Nigeria carrying Russian flags and chanting slogans.
Protesters in various northern states were seen marching with Russian flags and holding placards with diverse messages, sparking concerns about potential external influence on the demonstrations.
In a statement released on Monday, the Russian Embassy emphasized that Russia does not interfere in the internal affairs of other countries, including Nigeria. The statement clarified that the actions of the protesters do not reflect any official Russian government policy or position.
“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 statement read. “The Government of the Russian Federation as well as any Russian officials are not involved in these activities and do not coordinate them in any way.”
The embassy reiterated that Russia respects Nigerian democracy and views peaceful demonstrations, conducted in accordance with Nigerian law, as a manifestation of democratic principles. The statement concluded with a condemnation of any potential violence or disruptions resulting from the protests.
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