Prof. Bola Akinterinwa, a former Director General of the Nigerian Institute of International Affairs (NIIA), has disclosed that the majority of EndBadGovernance protesters displaying the Russian flag are actually Nigeriens.
According to reports from NewsNow, some demonstrators in Kano and Zamfara states were recently seen carrying the Russian flag.
There has been significant crackdown on those advocating for this idea, who are also pushing for a military regime in Nigeria.
The Department of State Services (DSS) arrested several individuals, including a man suspected to be manufacturing the flag.
In his comments on the issue, Akinterimwa pointed out that the flag-bearers are from Niger, attributing it to the porous border between Nigeria and Niger.
He mentioned that these “foreigners” showcased the Russian flag to signify their dissatisfaction with the Nigerian government’s stance against military intervention in their country.
They expressed frustration over the actions of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), under the leadership of President Bola Tinubu.
In an interview with Daily Trust, Akinterimwa remarked, “For those carrying the Russian flag, what does it symbolize to them? I doubt they fully comprehend it beyond showing support for Russia over the West.”
He added, “Are the flag-bearers locals from Kano? My perspective is that they are most likely not Nigerians. It becomes a more concerning issue when you assume they are Nigerians.”
“The border between Nigeria and Niger is porous, with the same ethnic groups residing on both sides. There is no distinct border separating Nigeria and Niger. Hence, all individuals with the Russian flag are essentially of Nigerien origin.”
“They simply entered Kano. These individuals are essentially foreigners seizing the opportunity to convey to the Nigerian government that Nigeriens endorse the military regime,” he concluded.