The Russian Embassy in Nigeria on Monday said Russia is not involved and does not coordinate the activities of those waving its flags during the #EndBadGovernance protests in Nigeria.
The #EndBadGovernance protests, which began on 1 August, continued for the fifth day on Monday, with some demonstrators waving the Russian flags and chanting slogans demanding the removal of President Bola Tinubu as they marched on major streets in parts of northern Nigeria.
In a statement on Monday, the Russian embassy said, “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.
“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 on the issue.”
The Russian Embassy said, “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.”
The #Endbadgovernance protesters are mostly young Nigerians expressing their grievances on the high cost of living, food shortages, and government mismanagement. Many marchers called on President Tinubu to address systemic corruption and reverse controversial economic reforms that he passed last year.
