By Halima Imam
I taught Civic Education for eight years and, in my experience, I have come to realize that many Nigerians do not know this subject well and care even less about knowing their country. It is ironic when students claim Civic Education is so easy, yet some of them fail it effortlessly. It is like saying a walk in the park is easy, but somehow tripping over every pebble along the way!
Recently, there have been disturbing reports of Northern youth flying Russian flags during their so-called ‘peaceful protests’ in Nigeria. This act is not only misguided but also dangerous. It undermines our national unity and sovereignty, sending a conflicting message that can dilute the significance of their cause and create divisions among citizens. Such actions are not mere symbolic gestures but carry serious legal ramifications and can be interpreted as a treasonable offence under Nigerian law.
A nation’s flag is a powerful symbol of its identity, sovereignty, and unity. It represents the collective values, history, and aspirations of its people. Flying a foreign flag during a protest can be perceived as a sign of allegiance to another nation, leading to misunderstandings and distrust among fellow citizens. According to Section 37 of the Criminal Code Act, treasonable felonies include any act that is intended to levy war against the state or to intimidate or overawe the President or Governor of a state. While the law does not explicitly mention the flying of foreign flags, actions showing allegiance to a foreign power can fall under this category.
The law takes a stern view of acts that threaten the sovereignty and security of the nation. By flying a foreign flag, protestors could be seen as endorsing foreign intervention or influence in domestic affairs, which can be construed as an attempt to undermine the government’s authority. This is particularly sensitive in a diverse country like Nigeria, where unity is paramount for national stability.
The consequences of engaging in such an act can be severe. Individuals found guilty of treasonable felonies face lengthy prison sentences and hefty fines. Moreover, being charged with treason can have lasting repercussions on one’s personal and professional life. It can tarnish reputations, limit future opportunities, and cause undue stress and hardship to the individual and their family.
To the non-conformist Northern youth partaking in these actions, it is essential to understand the gravity of your actions. Do not allow yourselves to be used as instruments against the state. History has shown that external influences can exploit internal discontent to destabilize nations, leading to prolonged conflict and suffering. We must remember the lessons from the Nigerian Civil War, where external support for secessionist movements led to a devastating conflict that left lasting scars on the nation.
Northern educational elites have a crucial role to play in this regard. It is imperative to instill civic awareness and education among the youth. Understanding the importance of national symbols and the consequences of undermining national unity is essential for fostering a sense of patriotism and responsibility. Civic education should be a cornerstone of the curriculum, emphasizing the values of national unity, sovereignty, and the rule of law.
To ensure that protests remain effective and within the bounds of the law, it is crucial for organizers and participants to be aware of the implications of their actions. Use the national flag to symbolize unity and solidarity. It reinforces the legitimacy of the cause and demonstrates patriotism. Avoid using or displaying symbols that could be interpreted as showing allegiance to a foreign power. Inform protestors about the legal boundaries and potential consequences of their actions to prevent unintentional violations. Ensure that the protest remains peaceful and focused on the issues at hand, avoiding any actions that could be misinterpreted as hostile or treasonous.
While peaceful protests are a cornerstone of democratic expression, it is essential to conduct them in a manner that respects national sovereignty and adheres to the law. Flying a foreign flag during a protest may seem like a harmless act of solidarity, but it carries serious legal ramifications and can be interpreted as a treasonable offence. By maintaining respect for national symbols and promoting unity, protestors can effectively advocate for change without jeopardizing their cause or facing severe legal consequences.
We must stand against enablers who, knowingly or unknowingly, support such divisive actions that threaten our collective peace and freedom. Instead, let us be builders of a united Nigeria, where every protest, every call for change, strengthens our national identity and brings us closer to the just society we all aspire to live in.
