In anticipation of planned nationwide protests against hunger and hardship set to commence on August 1, 2024, the United States, United Kingdom, and Canada have issued security alerts to their citizens in Nigeria, warning of potential violence.
The advisories from these countries caution their nationals to avoid areas where confrontations between security agencies and protesters might occur.
Each country highlighted the potential for disruptions and violence during the protests, urging vigilance and adherence to safety protocols.
The US Mission in Abuja advised Americans to avoid the rallies and stay clear of crowds and demonstrations, emphasizing the importance of staying updated via local media.
The advisory stated, “According to media reports, nationwide protests may occur in Nigeria between July 29th and August 5th, 2024. Based on past occurrences, protests may involve roadblocks, checkpoints, traffic congestion, and physical confrontations.”
Similarly, the UK High Commission warned of possible protests in major cities like Abuja and Lagos between July 29 and August 10. British nationals were advised to exercise caution, avoid large crowds, and stay informed through media reports.
The advisory noted, “Political rallies, protests, and violent demonstrations can take place with little notice. Get advice on areas to avoid. Take care if you’re visiting crowded public places or attending events which attract large crowds. If you see a threatening or intimidating situation, do not try to make your way through it. Turn around and move to safety.”
The Canadian government also alerted its citizens about the demonstrations, cautioning them to expect disruptions in traffic and public transportation. They warned that protests could become violent unexpectedly and advised continuous monitoring of local media for updates.
The advisory noted, “Nationwide demonstrations are planned between July 29 to August 5, 2024. They could disrupt traffic and public transportation and could turn violent at any time.”
These advisories reflect heightened concerns over the planned protests and their potential impact on safety and security in Nigeria, underscoring the importance of staying informed and cautious during this period.