The Russian government has issued a statement distancing itself from allegations that it played a role in the recent hunger protests occurring in Nigeria.

In a letter addressed to the Nigerian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, which was made public by Yury Paramonov, the Press Secretary of the Russian embassy in Nigeria, officials asserted that claims of Russian involvement are part of a coordinated media campaign orchestrated by Western and Ukrainian officials.

They argue that these efforts aim to interfere in Nigeria's internal affairs and to shift responsibility for any resulting consequences onto Russia.

The letter specifically criticized remarks attributed to U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken, former Director of the British Council in Nigeria David Roberts, and Ukrainian Ambassador to Nigeria Ivan Kholostenko.

These officials suggested that the presence of Russian flags at the protests serves as evidence of Russian interference. This assertion has stirred controversy, particularly following the #EndBadGovernanceInNigeria protests in August, where some demonstrators were seen waving Russian flags.

Russia has faced scrutiny over its alleged involvement in political upheavals across West Africa, particularly in countries like Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger, which have recently experienced military coups and severed ties with France while strengthening relations with Russia.

In response to the allegations regarding the Nigerian protests, Russian officials maintained that Western nations are attempting to undermine its diplomatic relationship with Nigeria. They urged the Nigerian government to disregard these claims.

The embassy's communication emphasized Russia's respect for Nigeria's sovereignty and its commitment to non-interference in the internal matters of independent states.

The letter reiterated Russia's support for peaceful dialogue as a means to resolve disputes within Nigeria and expressed a desire for continued cooperation and strengthened relations between the two nations.