Following the end bad governance nationwide protest that saw some protesters displaying Russian flags, the Concerned Nigerlites Forum has given the Federal Government one-month ultimatum to investigate, identify and take decisive action against perceived foreign government interference in Nigeria’s internal affairs.
In a statement by Abduljaleel Yahaya on behalf of the Forum, Civil Society Organizations, and Student Representatives also called for engagement with foreign governments to clarify their roles and seek assistance in achieving a peaceful resolution.
According to Yahaya, taking decisive action will send a clear message to the International Community that Nigeria will not tolerate foreign interference in its internal affairs.
The Forum also expresses dismay at the events that transpired during the recent uncoordinated #EndBadGovernance protest, where violence erupted in some states and there was a clear attempt by external forces to destabilize and sow political chaos in Nigeria, a sovereign nation, through forcible regime change.
They alleged that the actions of these foreign actors and their accomplices not only took them by surprise but also deeply saddening with the display of another country’s flag as part of a larger conspiracy to undermine Nigeria’s democracy and incite widespread crisis, destruction, confusion, distrust, and political instability is unacceptable mamner.
Tgry also described yhe action as a direct violation of Nigeria’s sovereignty and democratic principles.
The forum is calling for the Implementation of initiatives aimed at alleviating the suffering of Nigerians, particularly in terms of addressing hunger and reducing the high cost of governance.
Furthermore, they suggest collaborating with international organizations such as the African Union and the United Nations to access expertise, resources, and diplomatic support.
They also called for enhancement of security measures to prevent similar incidents in future by closely monitoring and regulating foreign entities operating within Nigerian borders to ensure compliance with Nigerian laws and values.
The forum therefore suggested evaluating Nigeria’s foreign policy to ensure alignment with national interests and the promotion of regional stability.
(Editor: Nkoli Omhoudu)