The United States, United Kingdom, and Canada have each issued travel advisories regarding the potential for violence during the #EndBadGovernance protest scheduled for August 1 in Nigeria.
According to The PUNCH, the advisories urge their citizens to avoid getting involved in potential clashes between protesters and security forces, citing previous incidents.
Market leaders in Abuja, Sokoto, Kano, Katsina, Ogun, Osun, Zamfara, and Gombe have also requested heightened security for marketplaces during the demonstrations.
In preparation, Nigerian police have recalled officers from non-essential duties.
A memo dated July 25, 2024, signed by CSP Okon Moses, announced the temporary withdrawal of riot police to strengthen the police presence for the protests.
The memo stated, “In view of the planned nationwide protest, it becomes imperative to temporarily withdraw some of the personnel attached to you in order to muster sufficient officers to dominate the public space. This is part of the proactive necessary measures to enhance the operational capacity/capability of the squadron and your understanding in the above regard is highly solicited.”
Force Public Relations Officer, Muyiwa Adejobi, confirmed the withdrawal was according to the Inspector-General of Police’s orders, aimed at bolstering the force’s ability to protect critical assets like banks.
“The IG ordered the withdrawal of policemen from some beats to augment our strength. Those withdrawn are those on non-essential duties. We’re going to have men to fortify banks and critical assets. That is where we will have our men; we want our men to be back to base.”
The military has also canceled leaves and passes for its personnel. The protest, organized under the #EndBadGovernance banner, aims to address economic hardships and perceived failures of the Tinubu administration, which had promised to use fuel subsidy savings for infrastructure but faced criticism over rising transport costs and food inflation due to policy changes and insecurity.
The US Mission in Abuja has advised Americans to avoid rallies, monitor local media, and stay aware of their surroundings.
Their advisory notes, “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. No specific times or locations have been identified for potential protests at this time. Actions to take: Monitor local media for updates; avoid crowds, avoid demonstrations, be aware of your surroundings, review your personal security plans, and keep your cell phone charged in case of emergency; carry proper identification.”
The UK High Commission also warned about possible violence during protests between July 29 and August 10 in major cities.
It urged British citizens to exercise caution, avoid large gatherings, and stay informed via media reports.
Their 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. Incidents of inter-communal violence occur frequently and often without warning throughout Nigeria. Although foreign nationals are not normally targeted, there is a risk you could be caught in an attack. Monitor local government announcements and media reporting.”
Canada’s advisory similarly warns of possible disruptions and violence from the protests, advising Canadians to remain vigilant, avoid demonstration areas, and follow local authorities’ instructions.
It stated, “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. If you’re in Nigeria, expect a heightened security presence, remain vigilant at all times, avoid areas where demonstrations and large gatherings are taking place, follow the instructions of local authorities, and monitor local media for information on ongoing demonstrations. Demonstrations occur frequently, especially in central Abuja and other major cities. Even peaceful demonstrations can turn violent at any time. They can also lead to disruptions to traffic and public transportation.”
