The US Embassy in Nigeria has issued a warning to American residents in Nigeria about anticipated demonstrations and restricted travel on February 25 and March 11.
The Diplomatic Mission According to a note posted on its website, American citizens in Nigeria should keep three days’ worth of food and water on hand in case mobility restrictions are prolonged beyond election day. The Embassy warned its people to avoid protests as “they might become violent with little or no notice”.
‘Security ‘Security Alert – Possible Protests Leading to Elections and Restricted Movements on Election Days’ said the notification.
“The Government of Nigeria will restrict the movement of all personal vehicles on election days across the country,” it read in part. “Information from the Government of Nigeria indicates that only law enforcement personnel and Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC)-accredited election observers will be allowed to move freely along the roads.”
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“Based on past election practice, we anticipate personal vehicles will be blocked from any and all attempted road movement from 00:00 until 18:00 February 25 and 00:00 until 18:00 March 11.
“Please be advised that movement restrictions may be extended at any time. Be alert to Government of Nigeria information about the restrictions.”
Last week, there were protests across Nigeria due to a shortage of fresh naira notes and gasoline. Since their money is stuck in the financial system, angry Nigerians have vandalised banks and automated teller machines (ATMs).
The old N500 and N1,000 notes were banned by Nigerian President Muhammadu Buhari last Thursday, and the old N200 notes’ expiration date was extended to April 10, 2023. However, at least 10 governors have petitioned the Supreme Court to overturn the President’s decision in the case that will be heard on February 22.
