The United States, United Kingdom, and Canada issued travel warnings for Nigeria due to planned protests over economic hardship and rising costs. The UK Foreign Office highlighted the risk of unrest from July 29 through August 10, citing past violent protests. Similarly, the Canadian government warned of potential violence during the protests. The US embassy advised American citizens to avoid crowds.
Reasons for Protests
Nigeria is grappling with its worst cost-of-living crisis in years, with record-high inflation rates. Activists have organized nationwide protests starting under the #EndBadGovernance banner to address these issues.
Civil society groups are spearheading the protests, prompting comparisons to similar demonstrations in Kenya. Some protesters in Nigeria have already blocked major roads in Abuja leading to tensions with authorities.
Authorities and Opposition
Authorities have urged young people to avoid protests, recalling the heavy crackdown on previous protests. Yet, opposition leaders like Atiku Abubakar advocate for the right to peaceful protests, calling on the government to ensure security to facilitate demonstrations.