Tunji Bosun
Protesters in Kano, Nigeria, were seen waving Russian flags and calling for the intervention of Russian President Vladimir Putin.
This demonstration is part of the ongoing nationwide #EndBadGovernance protest, which seeks to address the escalating economic hardship in the country.
The protest, characterized by the slogan ‘10 Days of Rage,’ has been marred by violence, looting, and the destruction of public and private properties, especially in the northern regions.
The protesters in Kano, primarily underaged youths, defied a 24-hour curfew imposed by the state government and took to the streets, marching along Bayero University Road near the Emir’s palace.
Auwalu Idi, a protester, voiced the desperation felt by many, stating, “We rather die of bullets than die of hunger; we cannot stay at home and die of hunger.”
The sentiment was echoed by others who emphasised the dire situation, with no food or water, pushing them to protest despite the curfew.
The demonstrators, carrying placards with messages such as “End insecurity,” expressed frustration with President Bola Tinubu’s administration, accusing him of serving the interests of international bodies like the World Bank, IMF, and the USA.
Some protesters even called for a Russian military takeover, highlighting their belief that Russian intervention could provide the necessary change.
Salman Garba, the Kano State police commissioner, indicated that some youths were operating under the guise of a programme organised by an unnamed politician at the Nassarawa palace of the deposed Emir of Kano, Aminu Ado Bayero.
This call for Russian intervention is not isolated. Russia has been expanding its influence in Africa, providing military assistance to nations like Niger and other Sahelian countries struggling with jihadist rebellions.
The historical ties and porous borders between northern Nigeria and the Sahel region have facilitated this influence.
Nigeria has been grappling with the Boko Haram insurgency for 16 years, resulting in millions of deaths and mass displacement in the north-east.
Despite claims by the military of significant progress against the terrorists, citizens argue that more effective measures are needed. Reports earlier this year indicated that jihadi fighters from the Sahel have crossed into Nigeria, further complicating the security situation.
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