As nationwide protests against hunger and bad governance entered their fifth day yesterday, President Bola Tinubu summoned a National Security Council meeting to discuss emerging security threats.
Held at the State House, Abuja, the meeting also addressed the alarming trend of protesters hoisting Russian flags in some northern states.
Briefing correspondents afterward, Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, declared the hoisting of Russian flags in Nigerian cities a treasonable offense.
General Musa emphasized that the military would not tolerate any attempts to undermine the democratically elected government, dispelling rumors of a potential coup.
He stressed that those involved in hoisting foreign flags in Kano, Kaduna, Zamfara, and Plateau states would face legal consequences.
He stated, “We briefed Mr. President on the situation. Criminals have taken advantage of the protests, resulting in looting and other criminal activities. The flying of foreign flags is unacceptable and will be treated as a treasonable offense. We are investigating those behind this and will take serious action.”
Musa reassured Nigerians that the military and all security agencies are committed to maintaining peace and democracy.
Responding to questions about alleged military involvement in looting, he clarified that investigations found no soldiers partook in such acts.
The meeting was attended by Vice President Kashim Shettima, Chief of Staff Femi Gbajabiamila, National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu, and heads of various security and law enforcement agencies, including the Inspector General of Police and the Directors-General of DSS and NIA.