Real reason #EndBadGovernance protesters are flying Russian flags in Kano – Ganduje’s aide

Salihu Tanko Yakasai, an aide to the All Progressives Congress (APC) national chairman Abdullahi Ganduje, has provided insight into the recent display of Russian flags by Northern protesters during the ongoing #EndBadGovernance demonstrations in Nigeria.

The protests, which started on August 1, are a response to public frustration over escalating food inflation and other economic challenges facing the country. The appearance of Russian flags among demonstrators in Northern Nigeria has raised concerns within the federal government and military circles.

In a post on X, Yakasai stated that the use of the Russian flag is a tactical move by Northern protesters to attract the attention of the federal government. He explained that many people in the North have been influenced by reports from platforms like BBC Hausa and DW about the situations in Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger.

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.