The United States Mission in Nigeria has issued an emergency warning, advising some staff members to stay home on August 1 and 2 due to planned nationwide protests.
The protests, sparked by soaring living costs, are expected to begin today in Abuja and Lagos, with possible additional locations in other cities.
In an emergency warning issued on Wednesday night, the U.S. Embassy Abuja and U.S. Consulate General Lagos, directed essential staff to operate only on Thursday August 1, 2024, and on Friday August 2, 2024.
It advised bon-essential staff to remain at home to avoid any disruptions that may result from the protests.
The warning cites media reports indicating that protesters will gather at Eagles Square in Abuja and various locations in Lagos, including Alausa Park, Freedom Park, and Peace Park.
The advisory noted that protests may involve roadblocks, checkpoints, traffic congestion, and physical confrontations, and warns of a risk of terror attacks.
The U.S. Mission advised staff to avoid areas of protest, exercise caution, monitor local media, and be aware of their surroundings.
They have also recommended verifying flight schedules, reviewing personal security plans, and carrying proper identification.
The advisory 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.”
“Actions to take: Avoid the areas of the protest; Avoid crowds; Exercise caution if unexpectedly in the vicinity of large gatherings or protests; Monitor local media for updates; Be aware of your surroundings; Keep a low profile;Verify flight schedules with your airline, if you have travel plans; Review your personal security plans and keep your cell phone charged in case of emergency; and Carry proper identification.”
