Hunger protest: US, UK, Canada issue security alerts to nationals in Nigeria

The United States, United Kingdom, and Canada have issued security alerts to their nationals in Nigeria, warning of potential violence during the planned #EndBadGovernance protest 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, citing historical precedents.

This week, the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, led by the All Progressives Congress (APC), faces significant pressure as Nigerians prepare to protest against perceived bad governance. The widespread discontent among the populace, unless a last-minute change occurs, signals a potential confrontation with the Federal Government.

The flurry of emergency meetings involving the presidency, the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), the National Security Adviser, heads of security agencies, state governors, ministers, and APC leadership underscores the government’s anxiety.

The protest organisers, operating under the #EndBadGovernance movement, have been mobilising youths and civil society groups to protest against economic hardships and the alleged failures of President Bola Tinubu’s administration.

The US Mission in Abuja, in its advisory, urged Americans to avoid the rallies, advising them to steer clear of crowds and demonstrations and to stay updated via local media. The alert highlighted the potential for roadblocks, checkpoints, traffic congestion, and physical confrontations, stating, “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.”

Similarly, 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, noting that previous protests have turned violent with little warning. 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 alerted its citizens about the demonstrations, cautioning them to expect disruptions in traffic and public transportation and warning that protests could become violent unexpectedly. They advised vigilance, adherence to local authorities’ instructions, and continuous monitoring of local media for updates. The advisory noted, “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.”

These advisories reflect heightened concerns over the planned nationwide protests and their potential impact on safety and security in Nigeria.