The Nigerian Government has issued a warning for its citizens who plan to travel to the United Kingdom, citing concerns about rising violence linked to the recent killing of three young girls at a concert.
On Monday, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Abuja released a statement signed by its spokesperson, Ambassador Eche Abu-Obe. The statement indicated that the situation has escalated to “dangerous proportions” with reports of attacks on police officers and damage to public infrastructure.
Nigerian travelers are advised to exercise extra caution by avoiding political demonstrations, protests, rallies, and large gatherings. They should also steer clear of crowded areas and remain vigilant and self-aware at all times.
Recent weeks have seen large and sometimes chaotic protests by far-right and other extremist groups in various parts of the UK. These disturbances have been intensified by the tragic deaths of the three girls, which have sparked anti-immigration sentiments, particularly targeting Muslim immigrants and people of color.
Last Tuesday, in a northern English town where the stabbing occurred, anti-Muslim protesters clashed with police. The incident took place at a Taylor Swift-themed event where the three girls were killed and five other children were critically injured.
This tragic event in Southport, a normally quiet seaside town north of Liverpool, has deeply shocked the nation. Authorities have clarified that the stabbing is not related to terrorism and that the suspect was born in the UK.