The Nigeria Police Force has issued a serious warning against any form of display of foreign flags as seen in some parts of the country during the ongoing nationwide protest.
The police force also said any calls for a military takeover of government were treasonable felonies.
The Force Public Relations Officer, Assistant Commissioner of Police Olumuyiwa Adejobi who released the statement in Abuja on Tuesday, expressed disapproval of the violent protests, particularly in Bauchi, Kano, Kaduna, and Katsina states, where protesters were seen with foreign flags.
According to the statement, the ongoing investigations indicate that protest organizers in these states are recruiting innocent children to participate in these unpatriotic and criminal acts.
The statement further revealed that over 90 suspects have been arrested, including tailors who made the flags and their sponsors.
Adejobi stated that efforts are ongoing to apprehend others involved in sponsoring and promoting these treasonable activities.
He said: “The display of foreign flags and calls for a military takeover is a clear treasonable offence, indicating the protest organizers’ intention to destabilize Nigeria’s democratic government,”
The statement emphasized that individuals and groups involved in these activities will be treated as subversive agents and face charges accordingly.
The Nigeria Police Force reiterated that using foreign flags during protests and openly calling for a military takeover of the government is a capital offense under Nigerian law.
The police also applauded Nigerians who have refused to participate in the protests and those who spoke out against them, adding that it shows patriotism and belief in the government’s efforts to achieve economic recovery and growth.
They equally commended the patriotism of those who peacefully participated in the protests but withdrew when they turned violent and those who heeded the President’s call to embrace dialogue.
The police force assured the public of its commitment to maintaining peace, protecting the nation’s heritage, and working with the public to ensure the safety and stability of Nigeria.
