Steer Clear Of Our Internal Issues, FG Warns Foreign Powers

The Federal Government yesterday warned foreign countries to steer clear of the nation’s internal affairs.

The warning came against the backdrop of foreign flags being flown during the ongoing protest against hardship in the country, especially in some northern states, including Kano, Kaduna and Zamfara, and the arrest of some foreigners as sponsors of the protest.

This came as the protest, which had thawed in most states where it was held, continued in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, yesterday, as protesters and some journalists were attacked by thugs who infiltrated the protest.

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The Nigerian Army has also detained the soldier who fired the shot that killed a 16-year-old boy in Zaria, Kaduna State, on Tuesday evening, saying he was being investigated.

Also, the Plateau and Bauchi governments which imposed a curfew in the heat of the protest earlier in the week, have relaxed it, as normalcy returned to the two states yesterday.

The Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Yusuf Tuggar, who gave the warning while briefing members of the Diplomatic Corps in Abuja, however, highlighted the importance of cordial international relationships.

The minister appealed for continued collaboration from the international community to support Nigeria’s efforts in overcoming its current challenges and achieving a better future for all Nigerians.

He warned: “While the government continues to work hard through the various reform programmes and measures to address challenges facing Nigeria and Nigerians, it is pertinent to remind us that no nation tolerates foreign interference in its domestic affairs and that of its citizens. Nigeria is not an exception.

“The government will take appropriate action against any foreign entity residing in Nigeria that is found to have directly or indirectly supported the protesters by whatever means or seeks to interfere in the internal affairs of the country.

“Nigeria cherishes and continues to value the cordial relationships that happily subsist between her and your countries and organisations and will not do anything to undermine or take for granted such relationships.

“Indeed, more than any time before now, we solicit your understanding and collaboration in the ongoing efforts of the Federal Government in addressing the economic challenges confronting the country, to achieve a better life for every Nigerians at home and abroad.’’