The UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office Government department has warned its citizens residing in Nigeria against visiting Imo, Bayelsa and Kogi States.
The warning appeared on UK website on Friday, stated that the states are endangered due to the incoming off-cycle gubernatorial elections in the respective states, adding that political rallies, protests, and violence can occur with little notice.
“Political rallies, protests and violent demonstrations can occur with little notice throughout the country. International news events can sometimes trigger anti-Western demonstrations,” it said.
It added, there is the potential for increased tension on Fridays. See more information under ‘Protests and Demonstrations.’
“Throughout Nigeria, there are high levels of violent street crime, including muggings, car-jackings and armed robbery in Nigeria. You should be vigilant at all times,” it said.
The UK government said about 117,000 British tourists visit Nigeria every year. However, it said that based on past election practice, it predicts that movement restrictions will be enforced within those three states from midnight to 6:00 p.m. on November 11.
The off-cycle governorship elections are taking place in November 11 in Imo, Bayelsa and Kogi.
