“Be Extra Vigilant, Avoid Public And Political Gatherings” – FG Warns Nigerians In UK

The Federal Government has issued a travel alert for Nigerians in the United Kingdom due to increased violence and disorder following recent riots.

The alert, signed by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs spokesperson Ambassador Eche Abu-Ode on Monday, August 5, comes after violent protests erupted in Britain.

These protests followed a knife attack at a children’s dance class in Southport, northwest England, where three girls were killed and 10 others were injured last Monday.

The attack led to misinformation spread by anti-immigrant and anti-Muslim groups, falsely claiming the suspect was an immigrant and radical Islamist.

The UK police have confirmed the suspect was born in Britain and are not treating it as a terrorist incident.

In response, the Nigerian government advises citizens to avoid political processions, protests, rallies, and marches, as well as crowded areas and large gatherings.

The FG also urged Nigerians to be very vigilant and self-aware at all times, stressing that the violence has assumed “dangerous proportions.”

The statement partly reads, “There is an increased risk of violence and disorder occasioned by the recent riots in the UK, stemming from the killing of three young girls at a concert.

“The violence has assumed dangerous proportions as evidenced by reported attacks on Law enforcement agents and damage to infrastructure.

“To this end, citizens are advised to be extra vigilant and take measures as follows: Avoid political processions and protests, rallies or marches. Avoid crowded areas and large gatherings. Be vigilant and self-aware at all times.”

The ministry also encouraged citizens to contact the Nigerian High Commission in the UK for more information via email (hc@nigeriahc.org.uk) or phone (+442078391244).

KanyiDaily recalls that the United Kingdom had also issued security alerts to their citizens in Nigeria, warning about possible violence during the ongoing nationwide protests.