They’re NOT Nigerians? SEE Where #EndBadGovt Protesters Waving Russian Flags Are Reportedly From That’s BIG Worry For Tinubu
In recent days, Kano, a major city in Nigeria, has seen an unusual sight during nationwide hardship protests where angry protesters are seen waving Russian flags.
According to Professor Bola Akinterinwa, a former Director General of the Nigerian Institute of International Affairs (NIIA), the majority of these flag carriers are not Nigerians but Nigeriens.
Prof. Akinterinwa explained that these foreigners are using the Russian flag to express their dissatisfaction with the Nigerian government and the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS). ECOWAS, currently chaired by Nigeria’ s President Bola Tinubu, has taken a strong stance against the recent military takeover in Niger.
The protests, which began on Thursday, intensified by Monday, prompting a crackdown by security forces. Among those arrested was a man suspected of producing the Russian flags. This incident has raised questions about the motives and implications of displaying the Russian flag in Nigeria.
In an interview with Daily Trust, Prof. Akinterinwa suggested that the waving of the Russian flag serves as a warning to the Nigerian government. He questioned the awareness of the flag bearers, doubting that they fully understand the geopolitical significance of their actions.
” Those who are carrying the Russian flag, what does it mean to them? I’ m not sure they know anything beyond the fact that they are supporting Russia rather than the West, ” Akinterinwa said. He emphasized that these individuals are likely not Nigerians from Kano, but rather Nigeriens taking advantage of the porous border between the two countries.
” There is a porous border between Nigeria and Niger, and you have the same ethnic community on both sides of the border; there is no true border between Nigeria and Niger. Consequently, all those who are carrying the Russian flag are basically from Niger. They only came to Kano. These are basically foreigners taking advantage to tell the government of Nigeria that Nigeriens are in support of the military junta. ”
The diplomat further warned that this situation could have broader implications, potentially pitting Nigeria against Ukraine, which is currently at war with Russia. He noted that Nigeria’ s stance on the military takeover in Niger might lead to a diplomatic crisis if not handled carefully.
” The government of Nigeria is not likely to be taken seriously by Niger because they see Nigeria as a disappointment. There is a need to explore citizen diplomacy, whereby citizens of the two countries come together and resolve not to be divided by foreign interests. ”
Prof. Akinterinwa highlighted the symbolic nature of the Russian flag, suggesting it serves as a notice to the Nigerian government to be more conscious of its actions and policies. He drew parallels to international conflicts, pointing out that Ukraine’ s war with Russia has seen indirect actions such as attacks by Wagner, a Russian mercenary group, in other regions.
” Ukraine is at war with Russia, but does not have a war with Mali. But knowing full well that Wagner (a Russian mercenary) is a major war ally for Russia, Ukraine decided to take a war to Mali. ”
By carrying the Russian flag in Nigeria, Akinterinwa warned that it could attract negative attention from Ukraine, similar to how Israel targets its enemies worldwide. He urged the Nigerian government to tread cautiously to avoid unnecessary conflicts.
In conclusion, the display of Russian flags in Kano’ s protests is a complex issue with significant geopolitical implications. As Nigeria navigates this delicate situation, it must consider the broader context and potential repercussions on its international relations.
