A coalition of civil society organizations (CSOs), operating under the Nigerian Ethnic Nationality Youth Leaders Council Worldwide, has sharply criticized the display of Russian flags during recent #EndBadGovernance protests. On Monday, the group called on the Federal Government to take decisive action against those responsible for the provocative display.
In a statement following a National Emergency Council meeting, the coalition condemned the flag-bearers as “coupists” and demanded their prosecution. While acknowledging the efforts of security agencies who have arrested some individuals associated with the flags, the group stressed that the primary instigators remain unidentified.
The CSOs also condemned the introduction of criminal elements into the protests, including acts of looting and vandalism of both private and public properties. They expressed appreciation to Nigerian youths for adhering to their call to avoid the protests.
The statement, signed by notable representatives such as Terry Obeih, President General of the Niger Delta Ethnic Nationalities Youth Leaders Council, and Oladotun Hassan Esq, President of the Yoruba Council of Youths Worldwide, urged the government to ensure the arrest, prosecution, and conviction of those behind the alleged treasonable acts. They warned that failure to address these issues would only encourage further subversive activities against the nation.