Seven Polish nationals arrested in connection to the violent nationwide protest against hunger and hardship in Kano State are currently under investigation, according to the Department of State Service (DSS).
This was revealed by DSS Spokesperson Peter Afunanya during a meeting with members of the diplomatic corps, chaired by the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Yusuf Tuggar, on Wednesday.
Responding to questions, Afunanya explained that the individuals were apprehended due to their display of foreign flags in the North-West region. He emphasized that their arrest was not a targeted action against Polish nationals, and they are being investigated accordingly.
The meeting also included the Minister of Information, Mohammed Idris, a representative of the National Security Adviser, the Inspector General of Police, and the Chairman of the House of Representatives Committee on Foreign Affairs. It was convened in response to the nationwide protests that began on August 1, 2024.
In his address, Minister Tuggar highlighted the Federal Government’s efforts to enhance socioeconomic development, noting a reduction in debt servicing from 90 percent to 68 percent, along with initiatives to ensure food security, create jobs, and attract investments.
Tuggar pointed out that recent negative narratives on social media are threatening the nation’s peace and stability. He assured that the government is committed to protecting both members of the diplomatic corps and Nigerian citizens in line with international laws. He also warned that the government would not spare anyone found guilty of funding the protests, whether from within or outside the country.
Earlier, the DSS had vowed to reveal the identities of those sponsoring the foreign-flag-flying protesters. At a joint news conference in Abuja on Tuesday, Peter Afunanya urged Nigerians to be patient as the Federal Government addresses the situation.