The Polish government has made a formal plea to Nigeria for the release of seven Polish nationals who were arrested in Kano for allegedly raising the Russian flag during a recent hunger protest in the city.
The detained individuals, a lecturer and six students from Warsaw University, were in Nigeria as part of a Hausa language program.
Poland's Deputy Foreign Minister, Jakub Wisniewski, met with Nigeria’s charge d’affaires in Warsaw, where he urged for the safe return of the detained Poles. Wisniewski expressed his belief that the students' actions may have been a result of ignorance regarding local customs, culture, and laws.
"During the meeting, I conveyed that I was convinced that the students' behavior could have resulted from their ignorance of local customs, culture, and laws. I appealed for the possibility of their return to Poland, to their homes, where their families are waiting for them," Wisniewski stated.
Despite the incident, Wisniewski dismissed the notion that the students were intentionally displaying pro-Russian sentiment, noting that Poland, a country with a painful history under Russian rule, is deeply critical of Russian actions, particularly in Ukraine.
The Department of State Services (DSS) announced the arrest of the Poles on Wednesday, stating that they were undergoing interrogation in Abuja. The DSS also warned against foreign interference in domestic protests, emphasizing that "appropriate action" would be taken against any foreign entities involved.
Dr. Peter Afunanya, spokesperson for the DSS, clarified that the arrests were not a targeted operation against Polish nationals. "The persons were picked up as a result of security enforcement because of where they were when the incident happened," Afunanya explained. He also noted that the Nigerian government is committed to maintaining domestic peace and stability and urged foreign countries not to allow their lands to be used as bases for activities that could threaten Nigeria's security.
In addition to the Poles, six Spaniards were also arrested for their alleged involvement in the protests. Afunanya warned that the government would take strict action against anyone found guilty of funding the demonstrations.
As tensions rise, the Polish consul is scheduled to meet with the detained nationals, who have been confirmed to be safe in Abuja.
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