The United States, United Kingdom and Canada have warned their citizens in Nigeria to stay away from a likely confrontation between the security agencies and protesters.
The countries in separate travel alerts said with previous experiences, predicted the likelihood of violence breaking out in the August 1 #EndBadGovernance protest in the country.
They gave the advisories as traders in Abuja, Sokoto, Kano, Katsina, Ogun, Osun, Zamfara, Gombe and other parts of the country requested strong security around markets during the rallies.
US
The US in its security advisory published on its website on Friday, advised Americans to stay away from the rallies and monitor local media for updates.
The alert reads, “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. No specific times or locations have been identified for potential protests at this time.
“Actions to take: Monitor local media for updates; avoid crowds, avoid demonstrations, be aware of your surroundings, review your personal security plans and keep your cell phone charged in case of emergency; carry proper identification.
UK
In the same vein, the UK High Commission said the protests could occur between July 29 and August 10 in Abuja, Lagos and other large cities and warned of a probable violence during the rallies, noting that past protests turned violent with little warning.
It asked its citizens in Nigeria to be cautious when travelling, avoid large crowds and gatherings and monitor media reports.
The advisory read, “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.”
“Incidents of inter-communal violence occur frequently and often without warning throughout Nigeria. Although foreign nationals are not normally targeted, there is a risk you could be caught in an attack. Monitor local government announcements and media reporting.”
Canada
The Canadian government has also warned its citizens in Nigeria about the protests, saying it could disrupt traffic and public transportation and “turn violent at any time.”
“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.
“If you’re in Nigeria, expect a heightened security presence, remain vigilant at all times, avoid areas where demonstrations and large gatherings are taking place, follow the instructions of local authorities, monitor local media for information on ongoing demonstrations.
“Demonstrations occur frequently, especially in central Abuja and other major cities. Even peaceful demonstrations can turn violent at any time. They can also lead to disruptions to traffic and public transportation,’’ the Canadian embassy stated in an updated travel advice published on its website on Saturday.
