The United States Embassy in Nigeria has issued a security alert to its citizens, warning of possible violence from the nation-wide protests in Nigeria, starting from Thursday, August 1, 2024.
A statement released on July 31, 2024 by the Consular office, the Embassy advised American citizens to exercise caution and avoid areas where protests are expected to take place.
According to the statement, protests are expected to begin gathering at Eagles Square in Abuja mid to late morning, while in Lagos, protests may start as early as 8:00 a.m. or 9:00 a.m. at Alausa Park, Freedom Park, and Peace Park, among other locations.
The Embassy warned that protests may involve roadblocks, checkpoints, traffic congestion, and physical confrontations, and that there is a risk of terror attacks in Nigeria, with terrorist groups potentially taking advantage of the protests to conduct attacks.
As part of precautionary measures, the U.S. Embassy in Abuja and the U.S. Consulate General in Lagos will operate with essential staff only on Thursday August 1, 2024, and on Friday August 2, 2024, while non-essential staff are advised to remain at home to avoid any disruptions that may result from the potential nation-wide protests.
Part of the statement reads, “Media reports indicate that protesters are expected to begin gathering at Eagles Square in Abuja mid to late morning. In Lagos, protests may start as early as 8:00 a.m. or 9:00 a.m. and primary locations have been identified as Alausa Park, Freedom Park, and Peace Park. Additional possible protest sites in Lagos include Nahco Bus Stop (Airport Road), Marwa Bus Stop (Lekki-Epe Expressway), and Ikeja “Under the Bridge” (Intersection of Obafemi Awolowo and Allen Avenue).
“However, protests may occur at other times and locations in Abuja and Lagos, as well as in other cities and population centers in Nigeria over the coming days. Based on past occurrences, protests may involve roadblocks, checkpoints, traffic congestion, and physical confrontations.
“There is a risk of terror attacks in Nigeria and terrorist groups may take advantage of opportunities created during the potential nation-wide protests to conduct attacks.”
The US asked its citizens in Nigeria to avoid the areas of the protest, crowds, while exercising caution if unexpectedly in the vicinity of large gatherings or protests.
They are also advised to monitor local media for updates, be aware of their surroundings, keep a low profile, verify flight schedules with airlines, review their personal security plans and keep their cell phone charged in case of emergency.
“Carry proper identification.
The Consular Sections of Embassy Abuja and Consulate General Lagos will offer reduced emergency American Citizen Services only. All visa appointments have been cancelled.”
