President Bola Tinubu has directed security agencies to crack down on individuals flying Russian flags within the country. This directive was announced by Gen. Christopher Musa, the Chief of Defence Staff, during a briefing with State House correspondents after the National Security Council meeting.
Gen. Musa reported that the service chiefs updated the President on the current security situation, which has been exacerbated by ongoing nationwide protests that have resulted in violence in several states.
“Initially, when the protest started, it was said to be peaceful, but we have realized that there are individuals taking advantage of it to cause mayhem. Criminals have taken over with looting and other illegal activities,” Musa stated.
The situation has become particularly concerning due to the presence of foreign flags during the protests. “Flying foreign flags within Nigeria’s sovereignty is totally unacceptable,” he added.
Musa conveyed a stern warning from President Tinubu: “We will not accept anybody flying any foreign flag in Nigeria. That is a treasonable offense and will be treated as such. Individuals should not allow themselves to be used by any parties.”
The General noted that children were primarily being used to fly these flags, pushed by certain sponsors. “We have identified those behind it and will take serious action against them,” he said.
President Tinubu’s instructions were clear: “We will not accept anyone disrupting the peace and tranquility of Nigeria. All security agencies are ready to defend democracy and the nation’s sovereignty.”
The President, in a national broadcast on Sunday, urged the protest organizers to suspend their actions as they had turned violent in some states, leading to loss of lives and property damage. He warned against opposition politicians attempting to disrupt democracy.
The National Security Council meeting was attended by all service chiefs, Vice President Kashim Shetima, National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu, and Inspector-General of Police Kayode Egbetokun, among others.
