Dr. Peter Afunanya (left) with DSS operatives
The Department of State Services (DSS) has confirmed the arrest of seven Polish nationals in connection with the violent nationwide protests against hunger and hardship in Kano State. These individuals were reportedly waving foreign flags and are currently under investigation.
This information was shared by a DSS representative and the organization’s spokesperson, Dr. Peter Afunanya, during a meeting yesterday with the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Yusuf Tugar, and members of the diplomatic corps.
In response to questions, Afunanya stated that the arrests were made due to the display of foreign flags in the North-West region. He assured the public that their arrest was not a targeted effort against Polish nationals.
The DSS had previously vowed to identify the sponsors of protesters displaying foreign flags, whom they suspect are attempting to incite insurrection in the country.
Highlighting the federal government’s efforts to enhance socioeconomic development, the Minister of Foreign Affairs noted that debt servicing has been reduced from 90 percent to 68 percent, alongside other initiatives aimed at ensuring food security and creating jobs and investments.
Ambassador Tuggar emphasized that recent negative narratives on social media have threatened the peace and stability of the nation. He reiterated the federal government’s commitment to protecting members of the diplomatic corps and Nigerians in accordance with international laws.
He also warned that anyone found guilty of funding the protests, whether from within the country or abroad, would face consequences. Attendees at the meeting 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.
This meeting was convened in light of the nationwide protests that began on August 1, 2024.
