Salihu Tanko Yakasai, an aide to All Progressives Congress (APC) national chairmnan, Abdullahi Ganduje, has shed light on the recent appearance of Russian flags among Northern protesters during the nationwide #EndBadGovernance demonstrations.
The protests, which began on August 1, are driven by public dissatisfaction over rising food inflation and the broader economic challenges facing Nigeria.
However, some of the demonstrators in Northern Nigeria have been waving Russian flags, prompting widespread concerns, especially from the federal government and the military hierarchy.
Writing on X, Yakasai explained that the use of the Russian flag is a strategic move by Northern protesters aimed at drawing the attention of the federal government.
He noted that many in the North have been exposed to reports on the situation in Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger through platforms like BBC Hausa and DW.
His words: “The average northerner is well informed. They heard stories on BBC Hausa & DW of what happened in Mali, Burkina, & Niger.
“They want to use the flag to get the attention of FG. My fear is that they may end up getting the attention of external forces who’ll take advantage of it.”
In response to the situation, the Nigerian Military has vowed to prosecute those responsible for waving the flags.
Also, the Russian Embassy in a statement released on Monday, said the use of the Russian flag by the protesters does not represent any official Russian government policy or stance.
