ABUJA (Sundiata Post) – Former Director of the Department of State Services (DSS), Mike Ejiofor has described protesters wielding Russia’s flag as a “dangerous development” which must be stopped.
As the nationwide protest over the economic hardship continues, those participating in cities like Abuja, Kaduna, and Kano were seen waving the Russian flag on Monday.
The development has raised fresh concerns in a tense nation amid the demonstrations which began on August 1.
In a recent chat with Nigerian Tribune, Ejiofor said that it brings up the possibility of foreign influence while noting that it follows the trend of neighbouring West African nations.
“This is a dangerous development, in view of the fact that intelligence from the SSS before these protests, suggested that they (protesters) have foreign support.
“Even if they don’t have people inside supporting it, there is bound to be some infiltration. Don’t also forget the role Russia is playing in Niger and Burkina Faso and the proximity to Nigeria; they can exploit it and use some of these disgruntled elements.
“However, I believe that the government should, using the security agencies, be on top of the situation, to nip in the bud, any nefarious activities..
“The citizens on their part should be very security conscious by giving information to the security agencies.
“We are still contending with internal security challenges, then now you have foreign elements; that will be very bad for us,” he said.
Speaking further, Ejiofor called for the arrest of those waving the Russian flag while warning that if not taken seriously could undermine Nigeria’s sovereignty.
“I wouldn’t say it will undermine Nigeria’s sovereignty as we speak, but the fact remains that it can’t be downplayed.
“That is why the government should view it seriously, identify those behind it and possibly prosecute them because if it is allowed to fester, it will undermine our sovereignty.”
