SAHARA REPORTERS
The Nigerian government has issued a travel warning to citizens planning to visit the United Kingdom due to the escalating crisis following the tragic killing of three young girls at a concert.
In a travel alert released on Monday by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (Ref. No: MFA/PR/2024/14), signed by Ambassador Eche Abu-Obe, Spokesperson for the Ministry, the government cautioned Nigerians that the situation in the UK has taken a dangerous turn, with reports of attacks on law enforcement officers and infrastructure damage.
The alert advises Nigerians to exercise extreme caution when traveling to the UK.
It warned Nigerians in the UK to be vigilant and self-aware at all times. The Nigerian government also advised them to avoid political processions and protests, rallies or marches, crowded areas and large gatherings.
The advisory reads: “There is an increased risk of violence and disorder occasioned by the recent riots in the UK, stemming from the killing of 3 young girls at a concert. The violence has assumed dangerous proportions as evidenced by reported attacks on Law enforcement agents and damage to infrastructure.
“To this end, citizens are advised to be extra vigilant and take measures as follows:
“Avoid political processions and protests, rallies or marches. Avoid crowded areas and large gatherings. Be vigilant and self aware at all times.
“Contact the High Commission with a view to passing information that could be of interest via e-mail and hc@nigeriahc.org.uk, +442078391244. telephone”
Giving background of the situation, the Nigerian government stated that demonstrations by far right and other extra-parliamentary groups in parts of the UK in recent weeks have been large, and in some instances unruly.
“These disturbances have only been aggravated by the unfortunate deaths of the 3 girls and it has spawned an anti-immigration narrative, with particular emphasis on Muslim immigrants or persons of colour being targeted.
“This advisory remains under review,” it said.