The United States, United Kingdom, and Canada have issued security alerts to their citizens in Nigeria, warning of potential violence during the upcoming nationwide protests.
The advisories come ahead of the planned protests against hunger and hardship set to begin on August 1, 2024. Each country has urged its citizens to avoid areas where confrontations between security forces and protesters may occur.
The US Mission in Abuja advised Americans to avoid rallies and large crowds, highlighting the potential for roadblocks, checkpoints, and physical confrontations. The advisory, referencing media reports, noted that the protests could occur between July 29th and August 5th, 2024, potentially leading to significant disruptions.
Similarly, the UK High Commission has warned British nationals to exercise caution, avoid large crowds, and stay informed through media updates. They highlighted the unpredictability of such events, noting that previous protests have turned violent without warning.
The Canadian government also cautioned its citizens about the demonstrations, advising vigilance and adherence to local authorities’ instructions. The advisory mentioned that the protests, planned between July 29 and August 5, 2024, could disrupt traffic and public transportation and have the potential to turn violent unexpectedly.
These advisories underscore the heightened concerns over the planned protests and their potential impact on safety and security in Nigeria.