US warns citizens about travelling to Nigeria

 

• As Muslim youths protest US killing of Iran’s army chief

 

BY OUR EDITOR

Following Friday killing of Iranian General Qassem Soleimani in a drone airstrike, the United States (US) has cautioned Americans to reconsider travelling to or across Nigeria.

The US Embassy in Nigeria, in a travel advisory on its website, admonished American citizens to review their personal security measures, be prudent and keep a low profile.

Stating that it had no specific security threat information, the mission advised US nationals in Nigeria to stay alert in public places, including schools, hospitals, government facilities, places of worship, tourist locations, and transportation hubs.

The security advisory, which was dated January 3, 2020, also asked them to review and alter travel routes and times to reduce time and place predictability.

It read, “Due to recent world events, U.S. citizens should review their personal security measures. While we have no specific threat information, it is prudent to remind ourselves of the following personal security actions to follow on a regular basis.

“Actions to take: Be aware of your surroundings; keep a low profile; avoid crowds and demonstrations; exercise caution when walking or driving at night; carry proper identification; review your personal security plans and monitor local media for updates.”

Meanwhile, members of the Islamic Movement in Nigeria and some youths on Monday protested the killing of the Iranian General and his aides.

THE PUNCH reports that the Shi’ites burnt American flags at the Banex, Wuse area of the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja.

The angry protesters chanted hate songs and slogans such as ‘Death to America,’ as they condemned the US action.

The sect members also demanded the release of their leader, Sheikh Ibraheem El-Zakzaky and his wife, Zeenat, who are currently in prison custody.

READ: Nigeria puts police on alert over US killing of Iranian army general

Some of the protesting Muslim youths blocked the Abuja-Keffi highway in protest against Soleimani’s killing causing serious traffic gridlock on the busy road.

The unruly youths also paralysed commercial activities in the Mararaba and Nyanya axis of the FCT as traders who feared an escalation of their action locked up their shops and fled.

They were subsequently dispersed by security agencies after some time.

Reacting to the development, the Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs appealed to the youths “not to allow their emotions becloud them to the dangers of taking to the streets.”

The Head of Media and Communication, NSCIA, Ibrahim Aselemi, in a statement noted that the impasse between Iran and America could only be resolved through dialogue.

While noting that protest is an integral part of all civil democracies in the world, the council said the timing was wrong as it could lead to loss of lives.

“We appeal to these Muslim youths not to allow their emotions becloud them to the dangers of taking to the streets.

“We appeal to the law enforcement agency to be alive to their responsibility of protecting lives and property,” the statement said.