Seven Polish nationals, arrested in connection with the violent nationwide protest against hunger and hardship in Kano State, are currently under investigation, according to the Department of State Service (DSS).
DSS Spokesperson Peter Afunanya disclosed this information during a meeting between the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Yusuf Tuggar, and members of the diplomatic corps on Wednesday.
Afunanya explained that the Polish nationals were detained due to their display of foreign flags in the North-West region. He emphasized that the investigation is ongoing and assured that the arrests were not a targeted action against Polish citizens.
The meeting was attended by 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. This meeting was prompted by the nationwide protests that began on August 1, 2024.
In his address, Minister Yusuf 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 other initiatives to ensure food security, create jobs, and attract investments.
Ambassador Tuggar pointed out that recent negative narratives on social media are threatening the nation’s peace and stability. He reassured that the Federal Government is committed to protecting both members of the diplomatic corps and Nigerians, in accordance with international laws. He warned that the government will not spare anyone found guilty of funding the protests, whether from within or outside the country.
Earlier, the DSS had pledged to reveal the sponsors behind the foreign-flag-flying protesters accused of promoting insurrection. Speaking at a joint news conference in Abuja on Tuesday, Peter Afunanya stated that the identities of these individuals would soon be made public and urged Nigerians to be patient with the Federal Government.