By Abiola Olawale
The United States Mission in Nigeria has directed some of its staff to stay at home on Thursday and Friday over the ongoing nationwide protest.
The US Mission, in an emergency advisory issued on Wednesday, said only essential staff of the U.S. Embassy Abuja and U.S. Consulate General Lagos, would operate on Thursday, August 1, 2024, and on Friday, August 2, 2024.
Non-essential staff were advised to remain at home to avoid any disruptions that may result from the protests.
The US Mission also cancelled all visa appointments over security threats.
The advisory reads in part: “There is a risk of terror attacks in Nigeria and terrorist groups may take advantage of opportunities created during the potential nationwide protests to conduct attacks.
“The Consular Sections of Embassy Abuja and Consulate General Lagos will offer reduced emergency American Citizen Services only. All visa appointments have been cancelled.
“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 populaticentresers 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.”
