Addressing journalists during the demonstration, speakers for the group argued that the continued influx of weapons into the conflict zone has only served to escalate the violence.
Activists under the banner of the ‘Comrades’ Anti-Imperialist Campaign’ on Friday stormed the French Embassy in Nigeria’s capital, demanding an immediate end to France's military support that was fuelling the Ukrainian war.
The protesters, who gathered at the embassy located on European Union Crescent in the Central Business District, on Friday accused France and other Western powers of fuelling a "prolonged imperialist war" that has resulted in massive humanitarian suffering.
Carrying placards with inscriptions such as "Stop the Arms Supply," "Peace Over Imperialism," and "Diplomacy, Not War," the activists chanted slogans condemning foreign military interventions in sovereign affairs.
Addressing journalists during the demonstration, speakers for the group argued that the continued influx of weapons into the conflict zone has only served to escalate the violence.
"Continued military backing by the West only escalates the deaths of civilians and worsens the humanitarian crisis," one of the leaders stated.
"France must prioritise diplomatic solutions, cease the supply of arms, and support negotiations aimed at a lasting peace instead of acting as a proxy in a foreign-driven war campaign."
The organisers said the demonstration was part of a broader global movement opposing war and external domination in international affairs.
Security officials, including police officers, were present at the scene to monitor the gathering. According to the organisers, police officers questioned the protesters for not giving prior notice before assembling.
However, the activists insisted that there is no constitutional requirement for prior notification, maintaining that peaceful protest is a fundamental democratic right.
The protest remained peaceful and concluded without incident after several hours.
In a statement, the Anti-Imperialist Campaign said it would continue mobilising public opinion and organising similar actions until what it described as “foreign-driven war campaigns” are brought to an end.
The group also announced plans to stage protests at the United States Embassy and the United Nations in the coming period.
According to the organisers, the planned actions will include demands for what they called the “immediate and unconditional release” of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro and First Lady Cilia Flores by the United States government, as well as calls for an end to economic sanctions against Cuba and Venezuela.