Hunger Protest, Russian Flags and Reasonable Offence
By Mukhtar Ya’u Madobi
Nigeria is currently experiencing a wave of nationwide protests that have taken a worrisome dimension. Driven by severe hunger and economic hardship, these protests have spread across the country, reflecting the desperation and frustration of the populace.
What stands out in these demonstrations is the presence of Russian flags in the hands of some protesters. In Northern Nigeria, particularly in cities like Kano, Kaduna, and Bauchi, some demonstrators have been seen flying and waving Russian flags, urging Russian President Vladimir Putin to intervene and labeling Nigeria as a failed state.
This unprecedented display has stirred significant concern and condemnation from the highest levels of Nigerian leadership, elder statesmen, veterans, and numerous public analysts. Such actions are considered a direct challenge to Nigeria’s sovereignty and have been met with swift and stern warnings from the Nigerian government and the leadership of the Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN).
On Monday, following a high-level security council meeting with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Nigeria’s Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Christopher Gwabin Musa, along with other service and intelligence chiefs, addressed the nation. The military chief labeled the waving of Russian flags and calls for foreign intervention as acts of treason. He emphasized that such actions are a grave disservice to Nigeria and warned those involved to cease immediately.
According to him, the military will not fold its arms watching some disgruntled elements and mischief-makers ruin the image and sovereignty of Nigeria. Therefore, he warned that such miscreants and their sponsors will surely face the full wrath of the law as the Military will not continue to fold its arms watching bad elements causing violence all in the name of protests.
“And besides, all of us have seen it where foreign flags have been flown within the sovereignty of Nigeria, and that is unacceptable. We are warning in clear terms and the President has also said we should convey, that we will not accept anybody, any individual flying any foreign flag in Nigeria. That is a treasonable offense, and it will be viewed and treated as such. So nobody shall allow himself to be used by any individual.
“For those of them flying flags and if you’ll see a lot of them are kids being pushed to do that. We’re following up with those who are sponsoring them. Those are pushing them because you know, the flags were also made. We have identified those areas and we are going to take serious action against that.” CDS Musa said.
CDS Musa also reassured the public of the military’s unwavering support for democracy, firmly rejecting any notions of a coup against President Tinubu’s administration as demanded by some protesters. He added that the military High Command will always ensure the rule of law while preserving the integrity of the nation and safeguarding fundamental human rights.
“Also the issue of coups, Nigeria is a sovereign nation, Nigeria is a democratic nation all security agencies are here to defend democracy and ensure that democracy continues to strive. We will not accept anyone pushing or taking any action, seemingly or for whatever reason to want to push for any change of government. Democracy is what we stand for democracy is what will continue to defend.” Military Chief added.
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The Chief of Defence Staff, known for his dedication and strategic leadership since his appointment, has not taken the job of safeguarding Nigeria with levity. His compassionate approach and commitment to the nation’s stability have been widely recognized.
He always rises to the occasion of defending and safeguarding the territorial integrity of Nigeria whenever it matters through his visionary leadership style, resilience and dedication.
Recall that, in the wake of these protests that were hijacked by hoodlums in some States like Kano and Kaduna where some significant levels of vandalism, destruction and looting of public and private properties were recorded.
The CDS was quick and proactive by reading riot acts to the protesters saying that the military would step in to complement the efforts of the Nigerian Police Force (NFP) in tackling the widespread violence, especially in Northern States. He urged protesters to recognize that destruction is counter-productive and would only set the nation back.
“We want to warn those that are recalcitrant, those that don’t want to listen, that we will not fold our hands and see our country destroyed. We will take action, and the action that we’ll take will be professional. Anyone who is caught will be taken to the courts to be dealt with. Let us avoid anything that will bring mayhem within our communities.
“We have seen the level of destruction that has been carried out just yesterday, and so you can imagine if this continues for so long. The armed forces and the entire military security agencies will not stand by and see that to continue.” General Musa warned.
Nevertheless, the federal government ought to know that there is an urgent need for a united front against any threats to Nigeria’s sovereignty. The Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA), led by Malam Nuhu Ribadu, and the Department of State Services (DSS) should intensify their efforts in tracing the sources and promoters responsible for the unusual waiving of Russian flags and equally calling for their interventions. Similarly, the National Intelligence Agency (NIA), also has a great role to play in unmasking the faces behind such treasonable campaigns.
This investigation is crucial due to the sensitive nature of the issue, which directly impacts Nigeria’s sovereignty. The authorities are determined to uncover any external influences or internal agitators fueling this act of treachery.
In a nutshell, the ongoing hunger protests in Nigeria, marked by the unusual sight of Russian flags and calls for foreign intervention, underscore the deep-seated issues facing the nation. However, the response from Nigerian leadership has been clear and resolute.
Amidst these challenges, the government and security agencies need to focus on addressing the underlying causes of the protests. Ensuring food security and economic stability should be a priority to alleviate the suffering that has driven people to such desperate measures.
Additionally, efforts must be channeled towards curtailing the spread of the protests and associated violence. A comprehensive strategy involving all levels of government and community leaders is necessary to restore peace and order.
By addressing the root causes and maintaining national security, Nigeria can navigate through these challenging times and uphold its sovereignty and democratic values.
Mukhtar Ya’u Madobi is an NDA research student and the author of “National Security Strategies: A Young Writer’s Perspective.” Email: [email protected]
