Nigeria on Edge: US, UK, Canada Caution Citizens

Protest alert - Western Nations warn of Nigeria Unrest...

Nigeria faces economic hardships and planned protests, prompting travel warnings from US, UK, and Canada, amid potential disruptions and violence.

The US, UK, and Canada have issued travel advisories to their citizens in Nigeria, cautioning them about potential violence during the planned #EndBadGovernance protests on August 1. The warnings urge citizens to steer clear of confrontations between security forces and protesters, citing previous incidents of unrest.

In the lead-up to the protests, organizers have intensified efforts to mobilize young people and civil society groups to demand action from the Tinubu administration on economic hardships and perceived governance failures. The protests aim to hold the government accountable for addressing pressing public concerns.

President Bola Tinubu's decision to end fuel subsidies upon taking office in May 2023 has had far-reaching consequences. The move, intended to fund infrastructure projects, has instead led to higher transportation costs and food inflation, exacerbating economic hardships. Additionally, Tinubu's introduction of a unified foreign exchange rate and floating of the naira has resulted in a decline in the currency's value.

In light of the planned #EndBadGovernance protests, the US Mission in Abuja has issued a security advisory, warning American citizens to avoid the demonstrations. The advisory, posted on the mission's website on July 26, cautions against potential violence and unrest, urging citizens to exercise caution and stay informed about local developments.

The US Mission in Abuja has issued a security advisory, warning American citizens in Nigeria to exercise caution and avoid crowds and demonstrations from July 29 to August 5, 2024, due to potential nationwide protests. The advisory recommends staying informed through local media updates, as previous protests have resulted in roadblocks, checkpoints, traffic congestion, and physical confrontations.

The advisory notes that specific times and locations for potential protests have not been identified. However, the US Embassy in Abuja and Consulate General in Lagos will maintain regular business hours and continue to offer consular services as scheduled, ensuring that assistance remains available to American citizens despite the potential unrest.

It stated, “Political rallies, protests, and violent demonstrations can occur suddenly. Seek advice on areas to avoid.

“Exercise caution when visiting crowded public places or attending events with large crowds.

“If you encounter a threatening situation, do not attempt to pass through it. Instead, turn back and seek safety.

“Incidents of inter-communal violence frequently occur across Nigeria without warning. While foreign nationals are typically not targeted, there is a risk of being caught in an attack.

“Stay informed about local government announcements and media coverage.

“Widespread public demonstrations are anticipated throughout Nigeria from July 29, to August 10, focusing on major cities such as Abuja and Lagos.

“During this period, there may be heightened disruptions affecting transportation and infrastructure.

“Past protests have erupted into violence with minimal notice. Exercise caution when traveling, steer clear of large crowds and gatherings, and stay informed through local media reports.”

The Canadian government has issued a warning to its citizens in Nigeria, advising them to exercise caution due to planned demonstrations that could lead to traffic disruptions, public transportation delays, and potentially escalate into violent clashes without warning.

“Nationwide demonstrations are scheduled between July 29, and August 5, 2024,” Canadian government said in a statement.

“These events may disrupt traffic and public transportation and have the potential to escalate into violence at any moment.

“If you are in Nigeria, anticipate increased security measures, maintain constant vigilance, avoid areas with demonstrations and large gatherings, heed local authorities' instructions, and monitor local media for updates on ongoing demonstrations.

“Demonstrations are frequent, particularly in central Abuja and other major cities.”

Even peaceful protests can quickly turn violent, leading to unpredictable disruptions in traffic and public transportation, highlighting the need for caution and vigilance.