Security Crackdown Intensifies as Foreign Involvement in Protests Draws Government Attention
Security forces have escalated their crackdown on the #EndBadGovernance protesters, as several leaders and organizers have reportedly gone underground, switching off their phones to avoid detection. A number of protest leaders have been arrested and detained by security operatives, marking a significant turn in the government's response to the ongoing demonstrations.
In a related development, the Department of State Services (DSS) announced the arrest of seven Polish nationals in Kano State, accusing them of raising the Russian flag during the protests. DSS spokesman, Dr. Peter Afunanya, confirmed the arrests, stating that the individuals are currently being interrogated. This development follows media reports and footage from a few days ago showing #EndBadGovernance protesters carrying Russian flags.
The Federal Government has issued a stern warning against foreign interference in the protests, which have been fueled by widespread dissatisfaction with the cost of living. The government vowed to take "appropriate action" against any foreign entity residing in Nigeria found to be involved, either directly or indirectly, in the demonstrations. The government has also launched an investigation into the violence that has accompanied the protests since they began a week ago.
On Tuesday, the Police announced the arrest of six Spaniards for their alleged involvement in the protests, further heightening concerns over foreign participation. Many demonstrators arrested in Kano and Kaduna states for brandishing the Russian flag are currently being held by security agencies.
Dr. Afunanya clarified that the arrests in Kano were made as part of security enforcement measures due to the individuals' presence during the protests. He emphasized that the operation was not targeted at Polish nationals but was instead a precautionary measure to maintain domestic peace and stability.
The DSS has also indicated that it will reveal the identities of those sponsoring the foreign-flag-flying protesters, who are believed to be attempting to incite insurrection in the country. Afunanya warned that the government would not hesitate to prosecute anyone found guilty of funding these protests and urged Nigerians to remain patient as the Federal Government works to address the country's challenges.
During a briefing with the diplomatic corps, Foreign Affairs Minister Yusuf Tuggar reiterated the government's commitment to maintaining cordial relationships with foreign nations. However, he stressed that Nigeria would not tolerate any foreign interference in its internal affairs. Tuggar urged foreign entities in Nigeria to refrain from supporting the protesters in any form, warning that appropriate action would be taken against those who do.
The Minister also assured the diplomatic community that President Bola Tinubu is fully aware of the frustrations driving the protests and is working to address them.
Prominent legal figures and political leaders have condemned the display of the Russian flag during the protests. Senior Advocate of Nigeria Mike Ahamba, former Chairman of the Imo State branch of the Nigerian Bar Association Jude Ogamba, and Director-General of the Confederation of All Progressives Congress (APC) Support Groups, Kailani Muhammad, described the act as both treasonable and a violation of Nigerian citizenship.
Ahamba criticized the protesters for starting with good intentions only to undermine their cause by flying a foreign flag, questioning whether the Russian government could provide for their needs. Ogamba labeled the act as a "desecration of the country’s independence," while Muhammad called on the government to prevent the situation from escalating.
In a similar vein, Akpelu Azunna, President General of Ogbako Ndigbo Nile, condemned the display of foreign flags but urged the government to address the underlying issues causing the widespread suffering in the country.
- Pathfinder
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