Poland has formally requested Nigeria to release seven Polish citizens detained in Kano for allegedly displaying the Russian flag during a recent hunger protest in the city.
The group, which includes a lecturer and six students from Warsaw University, was in Nigeria for a Hausa language program.
Poland’s Deputy Foreign Minister, Jakub Wisniewski, met with Nigeria’s chargé d’affaires in Warsaw to advocate for the release of the detained individuals. Wisniewski suggested that the students’ actions might have stemmed from a lack of understanding of local customs, culture, and laws.
“During the meeting, I conveyed my belief that the students’ actions could have been due to their unfamiliarity with local norms. I appealed for their return to Poland, where their families are anxiously waiting for them,” Wisniewski said.
He emphasized that the students did not intend to display pro-Russian sentiment, highlighting that Poland, with its painful history under Russian rule, is strongly critical of Russian actions, especially in Ukraine.
The Department of State Services (DSS) announced the arrests on Wednesday, stating that the detainees were being interrogated in Abuja. The DSS also warned against foreign interference in domestic protests, stating that “appropriate action” would be taken against any foreign entities involved.
Dr. Peter Afunanya, a spokesperson for the DSS, clarified that the arrests were not targeted specifically at Polish nationals but were part of broader security enforcement. “The individuals were apprehended due to their presence at the scene of the incident,” Afunanya explained. He also urged foreign nations to prevent their territories from being used for activities that could compromise Nigeria’s security.
In addition to the Polish detainees, six Spaniards were also arrested for their alleged involvement in the protests. Afunanya warned that strict actions would be taken against anyone found guilty of funding the demonstrations.
Amid rising tensions, the Polish consul is scheduled to meet with the detained individuals, who have been confirmed to be safe in Abuja.
