Prominent human rights activist lawyer Femi Falana has condemned those waving the Russian flag and calling for the removal of President Bola Tinubu’s administration, labeling such actions as treasonous.
Speaking to journalists on Monday, Falana stressed that while Nigerians have the constitutional right to peaceful protest, this right must be exercised within the boundaries of the law. He expressed concern over the presence of undemocratic elements who have infiltrated peaceful protests to advocate for a military coup, warning that these actions constitute a serious abuse of constitutional rights.
“The right to protest is required to be exercised peacefully within the ambit of the law,” Falana stated. “While we support the right of the #EndBadGovernance protesters, we have a patriotic duty to call on them to distance themselves from undemocratic forces who are taking advantage of the peaceful protests to engage in violence or campaign for another military coup in the country.”
Falana highlighted that brandishing the Russian flag, particularly given Russia’s history of supporting unconstitutional changes of government in Africa, is especially troubling. He made it clear that turning legitimate protests against economic hardship into a campaign for unconstitutional change of government is unacceptable.
“Those involved in the illegal campaign for another military rule are advised to stop it forthwith. Otherwise, they may be accused of engaging in the offence of treasonable felony in contravention of section 41 of the Criminal Code Act,” Falana warned.
