In view of the general elections in Nigeria which is less than five days away, the United States Embassy in Nigeria has warned the US citizens in the country against possible protests and restricted movements in the country during and after elections slated for February 25 and March 11 for the Presidential/National Assembly and Gubernatorial/State Assembly positions respectively.
In a statement entitled ”Security Alert – Possible Protests Leading to Elections and Restricted Movements on Election Days” published on the embassy’s website, US nationals in Nigeria are advised to avoid political rallies as these can turn violent with little or no notice.
The statement reads in part: “The government of Nigeria will restrict the movement of all personal vehicles on election days across the country.
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“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.
“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’s information about the restrictions.”
The Embassy also advises on actions its citizens in Nigeria could take for their safety during and after the elections in the country. These include the following:
“Have three days of food and water in your residence in case movement restrictions are extended beyond Election Day.
“Have a pre-packed bag that contains your travel documents, medications, toiletries, cash, and clothes in case you need to relocate from your residence.”
The citizens are also implored to avoid large crowds; be conscious of their surroundings; Keep a low profile; carry proper identification; review personal security plans; keep cell phone charged in case of emergency; as well as constantly monitor local media for updates.