Written By Lisa Murimi
In northern Nigeria, about 40 individuals have been arrested for waving Russian flags during ongoing protests against rising living costs and perceived poor governance.
Army Chief Christopher Musa has labelled the display of foreign flags as a “treasonable offence,” intensifying the government’s response to the demonstrations.
The protests, now in their sixth day, have seen at least seven deaths and over 700 arrests.
Demonstrators have expressed their frustration with slogans such as “we are hungry,” while a minority have shown support for Russian President Vladimir Putin, with some even calling on Moscow for intervention.
The Nigerian government, led by President Bola Tinubu, has faced growing discontent following his decision to remove a long-standing fuel subsidy, which has led to soaring prices and a spike in the cost of living.
Tinubu has urged patience, asserting that his policies will eventually benefit the country.
As unrest continues, several West African countries have shown increasing support for Russia amid dissatisfaction with Western-backed civilian governments.
The Russian embassy in Nigeria has denied any involvement in the protests, describing the flags as the “personal choices” of some demonstrators.
Authorities have imposed curfews in multiple states, and tailors involved in making Russian flags have also been arrested.
Rights group Amnesty International has condemned the use of excessive force by security forces, adding to the growing tensions in the region.
