By Ezekiel David, Lagos

The United Kingdom has issued a stern warning to its citizens, advising against non-essential travel to several key regions in Nigeria due to the possibility of renewed nationwide protests. The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) cautioned that political rallies, demonstrations, and violent protests could erupt with little or no warning, urging UK nationals to seek advice on areas to avoid.

In a travel advisory released on Tuesday, the FCDO specifically highlighted Abuja, Lagos, Borno, Kano, and Imo as high-risk areas, among other major cities. This follows the recent conclusion of days-long demonstrations across Nigeria earlier this month, which saw significant disruptions, reports of violence, and the use of tear gas by security forces. The advisory warned that while protests have subsided for now, they could resume unexpectedly, posing risks to travelers.

The advisory further encouraged British citizens to exercise extreme caution while in Nigeria, recommending that they monitor local media, avoid traveling after dark, steer clear of large crowds, and remain informed through UK Travel Advice. The FCDO also reiterated its earlier warnings against travel to northern states like Borno, Katsina, Kano, and Kebbi due to ongoing terrorism concerns, as well as to regions such as Abia, non-riverine areas of Delta, Bayelsa, Rivers, Akwa Ibom, Anambra, and Imo states due to issues of insecurity.

This latest advisory comes shortly after several countries, including Nigeria, issued their own warnings against travel to the UK. These advisories were prompted by violent far-right protests in several British cities, where mobs targeted immigrants, particularly those of black and brown descent, following a tragic stabbing incident in Southport. The protests in the UK have led to attacks on mosques, asylum-seeker accommodations, and properties believed to belong to immigrants, further heightening tensions.