The Nigerian Police Force announced the arrest of 31 individuals for producing and distributing Russian flags during recent protests, labeling the act as treason. This move is part of a broader effort to quell what the authorities describe as criminal activities disguised as demonstrations.

Arrests and Accusations

On Monday, ACP Muyiwa Adejobi, the Force Public Relations Officer, disclosed that 30 people were arrested in Kaduna and one in Kano for recruiting distributors of Russian flags. These arrests come amid heightened tensions following the #Endbadgovernance protests that have swept across the country.

According to Adejobi, the total number of detainees linked to the protests has reached 873, up from 861 over the weekend. The police assert that those arrested are not genuine protesters but individuals engaging in criminal activities such as vandalism, looting, and rioting. “Those arrested so far across the country are criminally-minded persons, looters engaged in criminal offenses such as vandalization and destruction of public and critical infrastructure,” said Adejobi during a joint press briefing at the Department of State Services (DSS) headquarters.

Distinguishing Protesters from Criminals

Adejobi emphasized the importance of distinguishing between peaceful protesters and those committing crimes. He stated, “What we are having in the country right now are protests, demonstrations, and riots. Arrest of criminal elements should not be described as arrest of protesters.” This clarification aims to address concerns over the handling of the protests and to ensure that the actions of law enforcement are understood in the correct context.

He also addressed allegations of the police using live bullets against protesters, particularly in incidents reported at the MKO Abiola Stadium. Adejobi insisted that the police and other security agencies have operated within the bounds of rules of engagement, using measures like tear gas to control violent crowds. “Using tear gas against protesters when they resort to violence is allowed anywhere in the world,” he explained.

The legal grounds for the arrests related to the Russian flags were also clarified. Adejobi stated, “To carry the flags of a foreign country on sovereign land is a criminal offense.” He highlighted the arrest of Ahmed Tailor in Kano for producing and distributing Russian flags and mentioned similar arrests in Kaduna. The police are currently profiling the suspects to uncover further details about their activities and potential sponsors.

Adejobi urged the public and media to be precise in their descriptions, noting that the misuse of words can cause significant misunderstandings. “We need to use our words contextually this time around,” he said. He pointed out that while some states have experienced peaceful protests, others have seen riots and violent clashes, necessitating a firm response from security forces.

National Security Concerns

The police spokesperson also touched on broader national security concerns, emphasizing the need to protect critical infrastructure and maintain order. He recounted incidents where protesters attempted to breach government buildings and caused extensive property damage. “In some states, protesters have been so violent; up to the extent they attempted to break into government houses and offices,” Adejobi noted.

The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Police Commissioner had designated the Mashood Abiola National Stadium as the venue for protests in Abuja to prevent disruptions on major roads. Adejobi explained that this measure was taken to ensure the safety and orderliness of the protests, and any deviation from the agreed location would be considered a violation of the law.

Source: Vanguard