Emerging Concern: Youth Demonstrators in Nigeria Waving Russian Flags- Dr Sa'idu Ahmad Dukawa
In my immediate response, I identified three factors driving this phenomenon, which I believe converge into one dangerous issue requiring immediate attention from authorities and stakeholders.
**Three Key Factors:**
1. **Anti-West Sentiment:** In the Third World, even among the unschooled, there is a pervasive belief that institutions like the World Bank and the IMF, domiciled in America, are behind their increasing suffering. Viewing Russia as anti-America, the demonstrators seem to embrace the adage, "the enemy of my enemy is my friend." Hence, they call for Russian support, although the Russian Embassy in Nigeria has distanced itself from the act.
2. **Regional Influences:** Many Africans are aware that the Niger Junta, along with those of Mali and Burkina Faso, have faced stiff opposition from the West, prompting them to ally with Russia. The demonstrators may be signaling that if their protests are sabotaged by the West, they will not hesitate to invite Russian intervention.
3. **Domestic Politics:** There is a perception among Nigerians that President Tinubu is aligned with Western interests. The demonstrators might be expressing their discontent with him by targeting his perceived allies.
I concluded the interview by asserting that, regardless of the cause, it is evident that many Nigerians see liberal democracy as failing to deliver the desired leadership. This disillusionment drives some to seek alternatives, including bizarre acts such as waving the flag of a foreign country, calling for its intervention, and denouncing their own nationality.
**Deeper Reflections:**
In further reflection, I shared similar concerns with Professor Salisu Shehu in a WhatsApp group. We identified several critical points:
1. **Infiltration Concerns:** The youth waving the flags did not appear sophisticated enough to understand the implications of their actions. This raises serious questions about who infiltrated, mobilized, and supplied them with the flags. There is a significant concern about the possibility of these aggrieved youth being penetrated by unknown forces and possibly armed to fight their own country.
2. **Exploitation by Big Powers:** Both Western and Eastern powers might analyze and exploit the situation to serve their strategic interests, potentially worsening matters for Nigeria.
3. **Treason and Repercussions:** The demonstrators are likely unaware of the gravity of their actions, which amount to treason. A hasty response by the state could lead to a worse calamity. Notably, Biafra state agitators raised Israeli flags, and #EndSARS demonstrators raised American flags. This issue demands deep consideration by security agencies.
4. **Diplomatic Tensions:** The strained diplomatic relations in the Sahel could exacerbate the situation, with neighboring countries potentially capitalizing on the unrest.
5. **Leadership Silence:** Chief of Defence Staff, Christopher Musa, has labeled the act of flying Russian flags in Nigeria as a treasonable offense. However, there is a need for restraint from military leaders in a democracy. The Ministers of Defence, the Minister of Information, and various advisors to the President should address the situation instead.
These reflections underscore the need for deeper thoughts and actions to avert a potential state failure. Stakeholders must do more to address this issue.
