UK Warns citizens against possible terror attacks in Nigerian states, #EndSARS protests

The United Kingdom government has warned its citizens in Nigeria against visiting 12 states in the country over possible terror attacks.

The advisory from the UK through its Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) followed concerns on the possibility of terrorists carrying out attacks in Nigeria.

In a statement published on its website “still current at October 16, 2021,” it expressed concern over protests and a heightened security presence in major cities due to the trial of the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Mr. Nnamdi Kanu.

The foreign government also urged its citizens to monitor local media, and avoid any demonstrations or large gatherings.

The UK listed the Nigerian states as: Borno, Yobe, Adamawa, Gombe, Kaduna, Katsina and Zamfara.

Other states are: Delta, Bayelsa, Rivers, Akwa Ibom and Cross River.

The FCDO also advised against all but essential travel to: Bauchi, Kano, Jigawa, Niger, Sokoto and Kogi aand within 20kilometres of the border with Niger in Kebbi State, and Abia State.

It also cautioned UK citizens against travelling to the non-riverine areas of Delta, Bayelsa and Rivers states.

According to the advisory, events to mark the one year anniversary of #EndSARS protests are likely to take place nationally, week commencing October 18.

“There may be protests and a heightened security presence in major cities such as Lagos and Abuja.

In parallel, the high profile trial date of a separatist leader is also scheduled for 21 October in Abuja. There may be additional protests and a heightened security presence in Abuja and in the South-east for this reason. In all areas affected, you should monitor local media, and avoid any demonstrations or large gatherings,” the advisory stated.