August 5, 2024
President Bola Tinubu, on Monday summoned a National Security Council meeting where issues of security threats to the country were discussed as the nationwide protests against hunger and bad governance entered the fifth day
The security meeting which held at the President’s office at the State House Abuja, looked into the new trend of protesters hoisting Russian flag in some states in the north.
Briefing journalists at the end of the security meeting, the Chief of Defence Staff, CDS, General Christopher Musa, described as a treasonable offence the hoisting of Russia flags in any city in Nigeria.
The CDS also ruled out any possible coup to remove the democratically elected government, saying that the military would not allow any such attempt to succeed.
Last Saturday, some protesters in Kano, Kaduna, Zamfara and Plateau states hoisted the Russian flags in the afore mentioned states but the Chief of Defence Staff said that those behind such a grievous offence would face the wrath of the law.
He said, “We went to brief Mr President on the situation on ground and we know that since the protest started, all the security agencies are together.
“Initially, when the protest started they said it was a peaceful riot but we have realised that there are individuals that are willing to take advantage of it to cause mayhem. And we can see clearly what has happened since it has commenced. Criminals have taken over, a lot of looting taking place, stealing and all sorts of things are happening.
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“And besides, all of us have seen it where foreign flags have been flown within the sovereignty of Nigeria, and that is totally unacceptable.
“We are warning in clear terms and the President has also said we should convey this, that we will not accept anybody, any individual flying any foreign flag in Nigeria.
“That is treasonable offense, and it will be viewed and treated as such. So nobody shall allow himself to be used by any individual.”
General Musa further said, ” For those of them flying flags and if you’ll see a lot of them are kids being pushed to do that, we’re following up with those sponsoring them.
“Those who are pushing them because you know, flags were also made. We have identified those areas and we are going to take serious action against that. The President is clear on his instructions for us not to accept anyone that wants to disrupt the peace and tranquility of Nigeria.
“And we are all standing here together to show Nigerians that we’re working closely, we are working together with synergy to ensure that there’s still peace and tranquility in Nigeria, that we have assured Mr. President.”
