BREAKING: UK, US, Canada issue security alerts to citizens in Nigeria over planned hardship protest, see details

Legit.ng journalist Ridwan Adeola Yusuf has over 9 years of experience covering governance in Nigeria.

FCT, Abuja - The United Kingdom, the United States of America (USA), and Canada have all issued security alerts to their citizens in Nigeria, warning of potential violence during the proposed nationwide protests.

Legit.ng reports that the looming demonstrations against hardship pushed by some people online have been slated for August 1 to 10.

Some protesters in May 2024 in Abuja. Photo credit: Anadolu
Source: Getty Images

In separate travel advisories, the three countries cautioned their citizens to avoid areas of likely confrontations between security agencies and protesters, Channels Television noted on Monday, July 29.

The UK high commission warned that protests could occur between July 29 and August 10 in major cities like Lagos and Abuja.

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 are 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”.

Similarly, the Canadian government cautioned its citizens to expect disruptions in traffic and public transportation.

They advised vigilance, adherence to local authorities’ instructions, and continuous monitoring of local media for updates.

Its advisory read:

“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.”

In the same vein, the US mission in Abuja urged Americans to avoid the rallies, advising them to steer clear of crowds and demonstrations and stay updated via local media.

It said:

“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."

Legit.ng reports that Nigerians are grappling with hardship that emerged from economic policies and reforms put in place by President Bola Tinubu since he assumed in May 2023.

Soaring inflation has eroded incomes and hurt millions of Nigerians who are struggling to meet their basic needs.

Source: Legit.ng