Avoid Large Gatherings, UK, US, and Canada Warn Citizens in Nigeria Ahead of Protests
Ahead of a nationwide protest against bad governance in Nigeria, the UK, US, and Canada have issued travel advisories to their citizens residing in the country.
The protest, hashtagged #EndBadGovernanceInNigeria by the organizers, is expected to resemble the 2020 EndSARS protest, which killed many and injured several more when Nigerians took to the streets to protest against police brutality and extrajudicial killings.
Although EndSARS was organic and regarded as decentralized, the upcoming protest scheduled for August 1 has heightened security tensions in Nigeria as President Bola Tinubu’s administration continues to issue stern warnings against any demonstration that could lead to a breakdown of law and order.
The United Kingdom, in its latest travel advisory seen by Neusroom, asked citizens to take absolute care when in large crowds.
“Political rallies, protests, and violent demonstrations can take place with little notice,” the UK High Commission in Nigeria warned its citizens in the country, adding that residents should “take care if visiting crowded public places or attending events which attract large crowds.”
Although the Nigerian authorities are making efforts to quell the protest, including increasing security personnel around major cities by recalling police officers attached to some individuals, there are growing concerns that the protest might result in a breakdown of law and order, particularly with the recent demonstration in Kenya which has killed not less than 26 people.
“Past protests have turned violent with little warning. Exercise caution when travelling, avoid large crowds and gatherings and monitor local media reporting,” the UK warned its citizens.
This Might Interest You: EndSARS: ECOWAS Court Finds Nigerian Government Guilty, Awards ₦10M Compensation to Victims
Similarly, the United States and Canada have equally cautioned their citizens residing in Nigeria.
The US, in its own travel guide, told citizens to avoid large crowds.
“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,” the advisory stated.
The Canadian government on Saturday also asked residents to be “vigilant at all times, and avoid areas where demonstrations and large gatherings are taking place.”
“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 said.
Read For Call For A Nationwide Protest
Although Aisha Yesufu, Deji Adeyanju, and Omoyele Sowore, among others, have expressed their support for the protest, no one has officially been identified as the leader of the planned demonstration. This is amidst insistence by the Nigerian Police that leaders of the protest should submit themselves for identification.
However, the call for protest appears to echo growing sentiments among Nigerians, millions of whom are being impacted by the skyrocketing cost of living, insecurity, and other economic challenges.
