Recent protests in Nigeria have sparked growing concerns about Russian influence, evidenced by images showing demonstrators waving Russian flags in several states across the country. This presence of Russian symbols during the demonstrations was perceived by the Nigerian authorities as an attack on the sovereignty of the nation, describing this act as treason.
Although there are allegations that Russia is interfering in the protests, the Russian embassy in Nigeria has denied any involvement, stating that the flags were personal choices of the protesters and in no way reflect an official position of the Russian government. However, the Nigerian military has made it clear that waving Russian flags constitutes an act of treason and will be dealt with accordingly.
The protests in Nigeria were triggered by a major economic crisis, accompanied by the worst cost of living crisis the country has seen in decades. These protests have also been fueled by demands to fight corruption and poor governance that have hampered the country’s development. Despite calls from the president to end the demonstrations, protests continued, facing violent crackdowns by security forces.
President Bola Tinubu recently met security chiefs in Abuja to discuss the situation. In the context of this growing tension, the president declared that his government was committed to responding to citizens’ concerns, without however presenting a concrete plan to respond to the crisis. This economic crisis is fueled by galloping inflation, reaching a record level in 28 years, and by government economic policies that have weakened the local currency against the US dollar.
The protests also highlighted growing pro-Russian sentiment in parts of West Africa. This phenomenon is manifested by the favorable reception given to Russia by soldiers who have carried out coups d’état and severed their ties with the West. Nigeria is the current chair of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) and has warned protesters not to be used by “enemies of democracy” to promote unconstitutional agendas.
Underlining the seriousness of the situation, the Nigerian secret services announced the arrest of some tailors in Kano State, suspected of being responsible for the manufacture of the Russian flags distributed during the demonstrations. An investigation is underway to identify the sponsors of these acts..
In this tense climate where economic protests are mixed with allegations of foreign interference, Nigeria is facing major challenges in easing tensions and responding to the legitimate demands of its population. The issue of Russian influence in these events is yet another element adding complexity to an already volatile situation in search of lasting solutions.