The Federal Government has issued a stern warning to foreign countries to stay out of Nigeria’s internal affairs. This follows the sighting of foreign flags during protests against hardship, especially in northern states like Kano, Kaduna, and Zamfara. Some foreigners were also arrested as alleged sponsors of the protests.

The protests, which have subsided in most states, continued in Port Harcourt, Rivers State. Protesters and journalists faced attacks from thugs who infiltrated the demonstrations. The Nigerian Army has detained the soldier who fired a shot that killed a 16-year-old boy in Zaria, Kaduna State. The soldier is under investigation.

Both Plateau and Bauchi state governments, which had imposed curfews earlier, have now relaxed them as normalcy returns.

The Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Yusuf Tuggar, issued the warning while briefing diplomats in Abuja. He highlighted the importance of cordial international relationships but emphasized Nigeria’s sovereignty.

He stated, “No nation tolerates foreign interference in its domestic affairs. Nigeria is not an exception. The government will take appropriate action against any foreign entity residing in Nigeria found to support the protesters.”

The minister appealed for continued collaboration from the international community to support Nigeria’s efforts in overcoming its current challenges. He emphasized that Nigeria values its relationships with other countries and seeks their understanding and support.

The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, reaffirmed the government’s support for peaceful assembly and freedom of expression. He committed to investigating the violence and ensuring those responsible are brought to justice.

Idris thanked the diplomatic community for their support and assured that the worst of the unrest is over. He expressed optimism that the government’s policy interventions would soon yield positive results for the nation.

“We have launched an investigation into the recent violence to identify and bring to justice those responsible. The worst is over, and we can now move forward to enjoy the benefits of our policy interventions,” Idris stated.

The Department of State Services (DSS) is investigating seven Polish nationals arrested in Kano. They were allegedly involved in waving Russian flags during the protests. DSS spokesperson Peter Afunanya said the arrests were due to their location during the incident and were not targeted at Polish nationals.

“We are verifying the reasons and circumstances of their involvement. Our operations must adhere to democratic principles and protocols emphasizing freedom and human rights,” Afunanya stated.

In Port Harcourt, Rivers State, protests continued for the seventh day. Thugs attacked journalists and protesters near the Federal Secretariat. An eyewitness reported that police officers stood by as thugs beat two protesters.

Rivers State Police Commissioner Olatunji Disu promised a thorough investigation to ensure accountability and prevent future incidents. Police Public Relations Officer Grace Iringe-Koko warned that operatives would arrest and prosecute anyone involved in criminal activities under the guise of protesting.

“The ongoing protests have been hijacked by hoodlums, resulting in criminal activities. Protesters should confine their activities to designated areas. Any disturbance will meet firm resistance from the police,” Iringe-Koko warned.

The Nigerian Army has arrested the soldier who fired a warning shot that killed a 16-year-old protester in Zaria. The soldier is undergoing interrogation. The Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen Taoreed Lagbaja, has sent a delegation to condole with the deceased’s family.

The Army’s statement, signed by Major-Gen Onyema Nwachukwu, said troops responded to a distress call about hoodlums burning tires and pelting stones in Samaru. The soldier fired a warning shot to disperse the mob, but it resulted in the boy’s death. The soldier is under interrogation.

“The Chief of Army Staff has sent a delegation to visit and condole with the family of the deceased. The deceased was buried according to Islamic rites with senior military officers in attendance,” the statement read.

As normalcy returns to most states, Plateau State Governor Caleb Mutfwang has relaxed the 24-hour curfew in Jos. Residents can now move freely between 2 p.m. and 6 p.m. daily.

Bauchi State Governor Bala Mohammed also announced a relaxation of the 24-hour curfew in Katagum Local Government Area. Residents can now move freely from 6 p.m. to 6 a.m. daily.

Governor Mutfwang praised security agencies for their diligence in ensuring compliance with the curfew. Similarly, Secretary to the Bauchi State Government Ibrahim Kashim noted the curfew relaxation as a welcome relief for residents.