Russian flags: Dousing FG’s sovereignty apprehensions
Nigeria stands at a pivotal juncture as citizens across the nation voice their demands for accountable governance through the #EndBadGovernance protests. While the anti-hunger movement reflects legitimate concerns and aspirations for a better future, it is not strange for the Federal Government, in light of Russian flags appearing at the protests, to feel apprehensive. It is essential for all parties — protesters and the government — to navigate these challenges with wisdom, integrity, and a commitment to upholding both democratic principles and national interests.
Government must take the bull by the horns in matters of peacemaking. No point goading the hungry masses into more violence through its security forces. The government must recognise and respect the fundamental rights of citizens to peaceful assembly and free expression. These rights are enshrined in our Constitution and must be protected without compromise. After all, peaceful protests are a vital part of democracy, providing a platform for citizens to engage in civic discourse and hold their leaders accountable.
At the same time, the government has a duty to maintain public order, safeguard national security, and protect the rights and safety of all citizens. This includes preventing violence, vandalism, and disruptions to essential services that could undermine public safety and the functioning of society. The Police should be better trained in peaceful crowd management techniques and adhere strictly to international human rights standards in their response to protests. To falter on this will only build more resentment. Case in point, the manner with which Boko Haram was handled in its early years. Deaths at the hands of security forces — even if the dead is a ‘criminal’ — will always be treated as martyrdom.
Dialogue and engagement are crucial in defusing tensions and addressing the underlying grievances driving the #EndBadGovernance protests. The government should prioritise open, inclusive, and constructive dialogue with protest organisers, civil society representatives, and other stakeholders. This dialogue should focus on addressing issues of corruption, inefficiency, and lack of accountability through legal and institutional reforms.
Transparency and accountability are foundational to restoring trust between the government and its citizens. The government should demonstrate transparency in its actions and decisions, including the use of public resources and the implementation of policies aimed at addressing governance challenges. Accountability mechanisms should be strengthened to hold public officials accountable for their actions and ensure justice for victims of misconduct. This accountability includes punishing officers who harm peaceful protesters. The case of the soldier who shot a 16-year-old protester should not be thrown under the carpet, as is usually the case.
International cooperation and diplomacy can also play a constructive role in protecting Nigeria’s sovereignty amidst protests. Engaging with international partners, regional organisations, and human rights bodies can help uphold Nigeria’s commitment to democratic principles while countering external interference or misinformation that may seek to exploit domestic tensions. While it is good that Russia has released a statement decrying those flying its flags, it must be more open to debunk such actions.
Protecting Nigeria’s sovereignty in the face of #EndBadGovernance protests requires a balanced approach that respects the rule of law, promotes peaceful dialogue, and addresses the root causes of grievances. It is through such principled and responsible governance that Nigeria can strengthen its democratic institutions, enhance public trust, and secure a prosperous future for all its citizens.
The government should seize this moment to reaffirm its commitment to a Nigeria where governance serves the people. This is all the protesters desire. Progress that is glaring will spur no protests. It will not lead some to fly the flags of other nations and threaten Nigeria’s sovereignty. The political class must resist its us vs them style of leadership. To defend sovereignty, the leaders themselves must come to equity with clean hands. In so doing, it is other citizens themselves who will refuse the hoisting of strange flags in their motherland.
