The Russian government has officially denied involvement in recent hunger protests in Nigeria and dismissed accusations of involvement in the riots.
In a letter to the Nigerian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, shared by Russian Embassy Spokesperson Yuri Paramonov in Nigeria, Russia said that – Criticized statements made by former Council director David Roberts and others. Ivan Hhorostenko, Ambassador of Ukraine to Nigeria.
These officials suggested that the display of the Russian flag during the protests indicated Russian interference.
Russia rejects these claims, saying they are part of a coordinated media campaign by Western countries and Ukrainian authorities aimed at damaging relations between Nigeria and Russia.
The letter stressed that Russia always respects Nigeria’s sovereignty and adheres to the principle of non-interference in the internal affairs of other countries.
Russia also pointed out that the protests, including demonstrations in which Russian flags were raised during the #EndBadGovernanceInNigeria movement, have nothing to do with its government.
Instead, it accused the United States, Britain and Ukraine of trying to pin the blame for the unrest on Russia.
The Government of Russia reaffirmed its commitment to peaceful dialogue within Nigeria’s legal framework and expressed its continued support to the Government of Nigeria.
In addition, Russian President Vladimir Putin congratulated President Bola Tinubu on Nigeria’s National Day and emphasized his expectations for continued cooperation between the two countries.
“The embassy categorically rejects such accusations and reiterates that the Russian Federation has no involvement in the recent protests and has nothing to do with any future demonstrations or riots,” the letter said. “I will,” it says in part.
“Russia has always respected Nigeria’s sovereignty. We strictly adhere to the principle of non-interference in the internal affairs of an independent state,” the government said.
“In contrast, a coordinated media campaign by Western and Ukrainian officials and media outlets clearly demonstrates an attempt to interfere in Nigeria’s internal affairs and shift responsibility for any consequences onto the Russian Federation.
“We highly value the level of relations between our two countries, support only peaceful dialogue within a legal framework as the appropriate means of resolving internal disputes, and reiterate our unwavering support for the leadership and people of Nigeria. do.”
Yuri said the embassy conveyed the congratulations of Russian President Vladimir Putin to President Bola Tinubu on the occasion of Nigeria’s National Day.
“The Embassy also wishes the Nigerian people and government prosperity and stability and looks forward to continued cooperation and deepening relations between our two countries,” he said.
Read more: Nigeria Tribune
