US, UK, and Canada Issue Security Alerts for Citizens in Nigeria Amid Planned Protests

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Emmynet24 News Media - The United States, United Kingdom, and Canada have issued security alerts to their citizens in Nigeria, warning of potential violence during the planned nationwide protests starting on August 1, 2024.

In separate travel advisories, the three countries cautioned their citizens to avoid areas where confrontations between security agencies and protesters might occur.

The US Mission in Abuja highlighted the potential for roadblocks, checkpoints, traffic congestion, and physical confrontations. "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," the advisory stated.

The UK High Commission warned that protests could occur between July 29 and August 10 in major cities like Abuja and Lagos. British nationals were advised to exercise caution, avoid large crowds, and stay informed through 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."

The Canadian government also issued a warning: "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."

The protests, which are gaining traction on social media, are scheduled to be held across all states of the Federation as well as the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) in August. Nigerians are protesting against economic hardship, one of the country’s worst inflation rates, and economic crises sparked by the government’s policies of petrol subsidy removal and unification of forex windows.

Authorities are urging citizens to remain vigilant and adhere to safety recommendations during this period of heightened tension.