The United States, United Kingdom, and Canada have issued travel advisories urging their citizens to exercise caution amid expected nationwide protests in Nigeria. The demonstrations, set to begin on August 1, 2024, are organized in response to economic hardship and rising inflation.
In separate advisories, all three countries warned of potential violence and disruptions associated with the protests. The US Mission in Abuja advised Americans to avoid rallies, crowds, and potential conflict zones, noting that protests may include roadblocks and traffic congestion.
The UK High Commission highlighted the risk of violent demonstrations, especially in major cities like Abuja and Lagos, urging British nationals to stay informed and avoid large gatherings. The advisory stressed that protests can escalate quickly, and individuals should avoid confrontational situations.
Similarly, the Canadian government cautioned its citizens about potential traffic and transportation disruptions due to the protests, recommending adherence to local authorities’ instructions and monitoring local media for updates.
Protest Organizers Push Back Against Restrictions
In response to the security alerts, Damilare Adenola, Director of Mobilisation for the Take It Back Movement, defended the planned protests. Adenola criticized the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Nyesom Wike, for allegedly delaying or ignoring a request to use Eagle Square for the demonstrations.
Adenola argued that Eagle Square, as a public property, should be accessible for peaceful protests and criticized the minister’s demands for fees, which he deemed unreasonable for impoverished protesters. He assured that the protest would proceed as planned on August 1, despite bureaucratic obstacles.
The protest aims to address the severe economic challenges facing Nigerians, including skyrocketing food prices and high inflation, exacerbated by recent government policies such as the removal of petrol subsidies and forex window unification.
Adenola also accused the Department of State Services (DSS) of arbitrarily blocking the organization’s bank account, further complicating their preparations. He urged security agencies to ensure a peaceful and orderly protest environment.
The nationwide protests are gaining traction on social media, with organizers asserting that widespread hunger and economic despair are driving the movement. Adenola emphasized that the protests reflect the frustrations of many Nigerians facing severe economic hardship.
