Nigeria Expresses Concern Over Rising Russian Influence in Protests

Concerns are escalating in Nigeria regarding the growing presence of Russian influence in the ongoing demonstrations across the country. Reports indicate that some protesters have been seen waving Russian flags during the protests, prompting serious alarm from Nigerian authorities.
The display of Russian flags has been condemned by officials as a threat to national sovereignty, with military chief Christopher Musa describing it as treasonous. The Russian embassy in Nigeria has denied any involvement, stating that the flags reflect personal choices of the protesters and do not represent any official Russian stance.
The protests, which began last Thursday, are driven by widespread discontent over Nigeria’s severe cost-of-living crisis, the worst the country has faced in a generation. The unrest has also been fueled by allegations of corruption and poor governance. At least 13 people have died in the clashes, which have seen security forces accused of using excessive force.
President Bola Tinubu has called for an end to the protests and met with security chiefs in Abuja to address the situation. A curfew has been imposed in Kaduna state, the sixth state to do so since the protests began, following reports of looting.
The cost-of-living crisis in Nigeria is exacerbated by soaring inflation, now at a 28-year high, and government policies that have led to a dramatic devaluation of the local currency. While Tinubu has pledged to address the economic issues, detailed plans have yet to be outlined.
In recent developments, pro-Russian sentiments have been noted in parts of West Africa, where Russia is gaining influence, particularly in countries like Niger, which has shifted away from Western allies. The Nigerian secret service has reported the arrest of individuals in Kano state suspected of producing and distributing Russian flags, and an investigation is underway.
On Sunday, President Tinubu urged protesters to avoid being manipulated by external forces and to maintain focus on democratic principles as Nigeria holds the rotational chairmanship of West Africa’s regional bloc.