President Bola Tinubu on Monday instructed security agencies to take decisive action against those displaying Russian flags within the country.
Gen. Christopher Musa, the Chief of Defence Staff, made this announcement while addressing State House correspondents after a meeting of the National Security Council.
He reported that the service chiefs had briefed the President on the current security landscape, particularly in light of ongoing nationwide protests that have spiraled into violence in several states.
“Initially, these protests were described as peaceful, but we have come to realize that there are individuals intent on exploiting the situation to incite chaos. The emergence of crime, looting, and widespread disorder since the protests began underscores this reality,” he stated.
The general expressed concern over the sight of foreign flags being displayed within Nigeria’s borders, deeming it completely unacceptable.
“We issue a clear warning: the President has instructed us to convey that we will not tolerate any individual displaying foreign flags in Nigeria. Such actions are treasonous and will be treated as such. No one should allow themselves to be manipulated by others,” he emphasized.
He noted that many of those waving foreign flags are young individuals being influenced by outside forces.
“We are actively investigating those who are funding and inciting them. We have identified key players behind this provocation and will pursue serious consequences for their actions.
“The President has made it clear that we will not permit any attempt to disrupt Nigeria’s peace and stability,” he reiterated.
He affirmed that all security agencies stand ready to defend democracy and Nigeria’s sovereignty.
“We will not tolerate anyone seeking to instigate a change of government for any reason. Our commitment is to democracy, and we will steadfastly defend it,” he declared.
The CDS added that he had previously indicated the military would intervene if the protests escalated further.
“It is evident that subversive elements are instigating individuals to brandish Russian flags in Nigeria; this crosses a critical threshold, and we will not allow it,” he asserted.
President Tinubu, in a national broadcast on Sunday, urged the organizers of the protests to suspend their actions, noting that they have turned violent in certain areas, resulting in loss of life and destruction of property.
He also warned that he would not passively observe as opposition politicians sought to compromise democracy in the country.
The meeting included all service chiefs, Vice President Kashim Shetima, National Security Adviser Mr. Nuhu Ribadu, Inspector-General of Police Kayode Egbetokun, among others.
