The Nigeria Police Force released a press statement today, 6th of August, 2024.
The Nigerian police have issued a stern warning against holding foreign flags while protesting and called for military takeover describing such acts as treasonable offenses in Nigeria. This comes after several violent protests across Bauchi, Kano, Kaduna, and Katsina states where demonstrators were seen carrying with them flags of other countries.
According to the recent statement by the police department, investigations that are ongoing have uncovered moves by the organizers of these demonstrations to involve innocent children. More than ninety suspects so far have been apprehended including tailors who sewed those flags and their sponsors. There is an ongoing effort to arrest others involved in their production and sponsorship.
These actions are deemed seditious through displaying foreign colours and calling for a military intervention. The police argue that these activities form one part of an all-out strategy from which organisers of the protests want to destabilize Nigeria’s democracy. Intelligence reports supporting this view indicate that fifth columnists as well as non-state actors are exploiting economic hardship movements for their gains.
Although tensions have eased following President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s address on August 4, 2024, some groups continue to engage in subversive activities. The police describe these activities as “violent and unlawful protests” that include “the destruction of public infrastructure and private property, looting, display of foreign flags, and calls for a military takeover.” Those involved will face charges as subversive agents.
Inspector General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, has directed Deputy Inspectors General of Police for the Northwest and Northeast zones, DIGs Bala Ciroma and Bello Makwashi, to lead operations in the affected states. Their task is to stabilize the situation and prevent further violence.
The Nigeria Police Force has emphasized that the use of foreign flags during protests and openly calling for a military takeover is a “capital offense under Nigerian law.” The police also caution Nigerian youths to be wary of individuals and groups turning protests into business ventures, funded by local or foreign sponsors with the aim of destabilizing the country. Evidence shows that these sponsors have paid significant sums to exploit the protests, misleading innocent children into participating in these campaigns against the government.
In their statement, the Nigeria Police Force commended Nigerians who have refused to participate in the protests, citing their “sheer patriotism and belief in the government’s genuine efforts to put the country on the path of economic recovery and growth.” They also acknowledged those who peacefully participated but withdrew when the protests turned violent, as well as those who heeded the President’s call for dialogue.
The NPF remains committed to maintaining peace, protecting the nation’s heritage, and working with the public to ensure the safety and stability of Nigeria.
