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The Polish government has reacted to the claim that seven of its citizens were involved in flying Russian flags during the hunger protests in Nigeria.
Recall that on August 1, a protest against the rising cost of living commenced in many parts of the country, with protesters waving Russian flags in some Northern states, including Kano.
The Polish nationals are six students and their lecturer from the University of Warsaw were on an exchange programme at Bayero University in Kano.
Andrzej Szejna, Polish Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs, clarified in an interview with RMF FM, a private radio station that the students and the lecturer were only caught in an unfortunate situation.
Szejna said, “This is a group of African studies who found themselves in the wrong place at the wrong time.
“They were carrying no flags but it seems that they were taking photos and this had been interpreted in this way.”
Also, Warsaw University issued a statement assuring that the Chancellor of Bayero University in Kano had confirmed the safety of the students, who have since been transferred to Abuja.
The Polish Ministry of Foreign Affairs, in coordination with consular services and other relevant institutions, is closely monitoring the situation and maintaining contact with the students’ families.
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In a statement, Alojzy Nowak, the university rector, appealed for the release of the students and lecturer.
“The release of six African Studies students and a lecturer from our university held in Nigeria is a priority for me,” Nowak said.
Newsband reported that the Department of State Services (DSS) arrested seven Polish nationals over the waving of Russian flags during the protest in Kano.
At a meeting with members of the diplomatic corps on August 7, Dr Peter Afunanya, the secret police spokesman confirmed that the Polish citizens arrested were undergoing investigation.
