The United Kingdom on Tuesday, January 7, issued a travel advisory to its citizens, pencilling at least 18 Nigerian states to either avoid totally or only visit when it is really necessary.
The advisory from the UK comes amid the tension between the United States of America and Iran following the killing of General Qasem Soleimani, in Baghdad, Iraq on January 3.
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The UK, through its Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO), said it is worried over the public disturbance in some parts of Nigeria.
The Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) advise against all travel to:
1. Borno state
2. Yobe state
3. Adamawa state
4. Gombe state
5. Riverine areas of Delta, Bayelsa, Rivers, Akwa Ibom and Cross River states
6. Within 20km of the border with Niger in Zamfara state
The FCO advise against all but essential travel to:
1. Bauchi state
2. Zamfara state
3. Kano state
4. Kaduna state
5. Jigawa state
6. Katsina state
7. Kogi state
8. Within 20km of the border with Niger in Sokoto and Kebbi states
9. Non-riverine areas of Delta, Bayelsa and Rivers state
10. Abia state
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The UK recalled that following the death of Soleimani, the Iranian military chief, Nigeria’s Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Mohammed Adamu, had issued a red alert against any possible uprising in Nigeria.
“The British High Commission is not aware of specific threats against British nationals, but you should continue to avoid large crowds and public demonstrations as they can turn violent unexpectedly and at short notice.
“If you become aware of any nearby unrest or disturbances, you should leave the area immediately,” the foreign country advised.
It also warned its citizens to be aware of their surroundings, remain vigilant and keep up to date with the latest developments, including through the media and the travel advice.
It noted that the Islamic Movement of Nigeria (IMN) has protested regularly in Abuja, the nation’s capital, and other cities and that some had turned violent.
