The United States, United Kingdom, and Canada have issued travel advisories warning their nationals in Nigeria about the possibility of violence during the planned #EndBadGovernance protest on August 1. The advisories come as market leaders across several Nigerian states call for heightened security to protect against potential unrest.
In separate alerts, the three nations cautioned their citizens to avoid areas where confrontations between security forces and protesters might occur. They highlighted past instances of violence during similar demonstrations as a basis for their warnings.
The advisories have led to increased security measures across Nigeria. Market leaders in Abuja, Sokoto, Kano, Katsina, Ogun, Osun, Zamfara, and Gombe have requested strong security presence around markets during the rallies. In preparation for the protest, the Nigerian police have recalled all personnel on non-essential duties.
A memo dated July 25, 2024, signed by CSP Okon Moses, directed the withdrawal of riot policemen ahead of the demonstration. Titled ‘Notification of Temporary Withdrawal of Personnel for National Assignment,’ the memo explained the need to enhance operational capacity. “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,” it read.
Force spokesperson, Muyiwa Adejobi, confirmed that this withdrawal was in line with the Inspector-General of Police’s directive to bolster the strength of the police. He noted that the redeployed officers would be stationed at banks and other critical national assets.
The #EndBadGovernance protest is being organised in response to economic hardships and perceived failures of President Bola Tinubu’s administration. Since assuming office in May 2023, Tinubu has faced criticism for policies including the removal of fuel subsidies and the unification of foreign exchange rates, which have led to increased living costs and currency devaluation.
The US Mission in Abuja, in its advisory, warned Americans to avoid the rallies, citing the potential for roadblocks, checkpoints, traffic congestion, and physical confrontations. The advisory urged US nationals to monitor local media, avoid crowds, and stay vigilant.
Similarly, the UK High Commission advised British citizens to exercise caution and avoid large gatherings, noting that past protests in Nigeria had turned violent with little warning. The Canadian government also alerted its citizens about the demonstrations, warning of potential disruptions to traffic and public transportation.
In response to the impending protest, President Bola Tinubu’s administration has challenged Peter Obi, the 2023 presidential candidate of the Labour Party, to lead the demonstration after he endorsed it. Tinubu’s spokesman, Bayo Onanuga, urged Obi to follow the example of previous leaders who led protests openly.
Meanwhile, market leaders and traders in Abuja have been urged to support security efforts to prevent infiltration by miscreants. Abbas Yakubu, acting Managing Director of Abuja Market Management Limited, warned traders to be vigilant and resist any attempts by hoodlums to exploit the protest for violence.
Raphael Okorie, Chairman of the All Chairmen and Secretaries of FCT Markets and Plazas, expressed concern that the protests could disrupt business and lead to attacks on shops and markets. He called for dialogue instead of violent protests and urged traders to protect their investments and remain law-abiding.
As the nation braces for the planned demonstration, market leaders in Sokoto and other states have been meeting with their members to discuss protective measures against potential attacks or looting by those posing as protesters.
