The Polish government has issued a formal appeal to Nigeria, urging the release of seven Polish nationals arrested in Kano.
These individuals, including a lecturer and six students from Warsaw University, were detained for allegedly raising the Russian flag during a recent hunger protest in the city. They 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 to advocate for the safe return of the detained Poles. He emphasized that the students’ actions may have stemmed from ignorance of local customs, culture, and laws, rather than any intentional pro-Russian sentiment.
Wisniewski highlighted Poland’s deep criticism of Russian actions, especially in Ukraine, due to its own painful history under Russian rule.
The Department of State Services (DSS) announced the arrest of the Poles, who are now undergoing interrogation in Abuja. The DSS warned against foreign interference in domestic protests, stressing that “appropriate action” would be taken against any involved foreign entities.
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Dr. Peter Afunanya, DSS spokesperson, clarified that the arrests were not targeted at Polish nationals specifically but were a result of security enforcement measures due to their presence at the protest site. He emphasized Nigeria’s commitment to maintaining peace and stability and warned against any activities that could threaten national security.
In addition to the Poles, six Spaniards were also arrested for alleged involvement in the protests. The Polish consul is scheduled to meet with the detained nationals, who have been confirmed to be safe in Abuja.