- The Chief of Defence Staff said that those behind such a grievous offence would face the wrath of the law
The Nigerian Army has said hoisting of foreign flags in Nigeria is a treasonable offence and those behind such a grievous offence would face the wrath of the law.
The Army made this known after some protesters in Kano, Kaduna, Zamfara and Plateau states were seen waving Russian flags last Saturday.
The development prompted President Bola Tinubu to summon a National Security Council meeting where the matter and other issues of security threats to the country were discussed
The security meeting, which held at the President’s office at the State House Abuja, is coming as the nationwide protests against hunger and bad governance entered the fifth day.
Briefing State House correspondents at the end of the security meeting, the Chief of Defence Staff, CDS, General Christopher Musa, the military deeply frowns at the trend of brandishing foreign flags in Nigeria.
He said, “We went to brief Mr President on the situation on ground and we know that since the riot (protest) started, all the security agencies are together.
“Initially, when the riot (protest) started they said it was a peaceful riot but we have realised that there are individuals that are willing to take advantage of it to cause mayhem. And we can see clearly what has happened since it has commenced. Criminals have taken over, a lot of looting taking place, stealing and all sorts of things are happening.
“And besides, all of us have seen it where foreign flags have been flown within the sovereignty of Nigeria, and that is totally unacceptable.
“We are warning in clear terms and the President has also said we should convey this, that we will not accept anybody, any individual flying any foreign flag in Nigeria.
“That is treasonable offense, and it will be viewed and treated as such. So nobody shall allow himself to be used by any individual.”
General Musa further said, ” For those of them flying flags and if you’ll see a lot of them are kids being pushed to do that, we’re following up with those sponsoring them.
“Those who are pushing them because you know, flags were also made. We have identified those areas and we are going to take serious action against that.The President is clear on his instructions for us not to accept anyone that wants to disrupt the peace and tranquility of Nigeria.
“And we are all standing here together to show Nigerians that we’re working closely, we are working together with synergy to ensure that there’s still peace and tranquility in Nigeria, that we have assured Mr. President”