The U.S. Embassy in Abuja has issued a security alert to its citizens over the impending nationwide protests scheduled to be held from Aug. 1 to 10 as organised by some groups in Nigeria.
This is contained in a statement by the embassy and made available to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Thursday.
It explained that the decision to issue the security alert was made “out of an abundance of caution,” considering the security risks related to the forthcoming protests.
The statement indicated that the U.S. Embassy in Abuja and the U.S. Consulate General in Lagos will operate with essential staff only, on Thursday, Aug. 1, and on Friday, Aug. 2, 2024.
It further said that the consular sections of the embassy in Abuja and the consulate general in Lagos would offer reduced emergency American citizen services only.
The embassy added that all visa appointments had been cancelled.
“Non-essential staff are advised to remain at home to avoid disruptions that could result from the potential nationwide protests that continue to be reported in the media.
“Media reports indicate that protesters are expected to gather at the Eagle Square in Abuja from 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),” the statement said.
It also noted that protests could occur at other times and locations in Abuja and Lagos and in other cities and population centres in Nigeria over the coming days.
The statement said that, based on past occurrences, protests may involve roadblocks, checkpoints, traffic congestion, and physical confrontations.
It added that there was a risk of terror attacks in Nigeria and warned that terrorist groups may take advantage of opportunities created during the protests to conduct attacks.
The embassy, therefore, urged U.S. citizens to avoid areas of protests and crowds, as well as exercise caution, if they unexpectedly found themselves in the vicinity of large gatherings.
It also urged them to monitor local media for updates, be aware of their surroundings, keep a low profile, and verify flight schedules with their airlines, if they had any travel plans.
The embassy called on the citizens to review their security plans, keep their cell phones charged in case of emergencies, and carry proper identification.
