Arrest of Polish Nationals in Nigeria Over Russian Flags Amid Protests

Nigeria arrested seven Polish nationals for raising Russian flags during anti-government protests in Kano. Protests erupted due to economic reforms by President Bola Tinubu, including subsidy cuts, currency devaluation, and high inflation. Polish consulate confirmed the arrests, while Nigeria's defence chief called waving foreign flags 'treasonable.'

Nigeria has detained seven Polish nationals for raising Russian flags during anti-government protests in Kano, as confirmed by Peter Afunanya, a spokesperson for the state security service, on Wednesday. These protests, which began on August 1, were sparked by economic reforms from President Bola Tinubu, including the removal of petrol and electricity subsidies, currency devaluation, and soaring inflation.

Some demonstrators in northern states waved Russian flags, raising concerns about increasing Russian influence in West Africa. Security services also apprehended tailors who allegedly created the banners. Afunanya clarified that the Poles were arrested as part of security enforcement efforts and not specifically targeted.

Polish consul Stanislaw Gulinski confirmed the arrests during a meeting with Nigeria's foreign minister in Abuja, noting the detained individuals were being transported to the capital. Nigeria's Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, has labeled the act of displaying foreign flags during protests as a 'treasonable offence.'