The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has issued a travel advisory for Nigerian citizens planning to visit the United Kingdom due to escalating violence and unrest in various cities across the UK.
The disturbances, triggered by the tragic deaths of three young girls at a Southport concert, have resulted in widespread riots, with significant incidents reported in several cities, including Rotherham and Bolton.
The unrest began on July 30, 2024, following the deaths of the girls, which sparked protests that quickly turned violent.
Rioters attacked the Holiday Inn Express in Rotherham, where asylum seekers were housed, resulting in property damage but no reported injuries.
In Bolton, clashes between rival groups saw the use of fireworks and smoke bombs, escalating tensions between anti-immigration demonstrators and members of the Asian community.
Police have struggled to control the situation, deploying additional powers under Sections 34, 60, and 60AA to manage the unrest.
The violence has been exacerbated by misinformation regarding the identity of Axel Muganwa Rudakubana, the 17-year-old charged with the murders.
Incorrectly identified online as a Muslim asylum seeker, this misinformation has fueled anti-immigration sentiments and contributed to the violence.
The spread of false information on social media has been a significant factor in the riots.
In response to these developments, the Nigerian Ministry of Foreign Affairs advises citizens to exercise extreme caution when travelling to the UK.
The ministry’s recommendations include avoiding political processions, protests, rallies, or marches, steering clear of crowded areas and large gatherings, remaining vigilant, and contacting the Nigerian High Commission in the UK for assistance if needed.
The alert says, “The Federal Republic of Nigeria has issued a travel alert for its citizens planning to visit the United Kingdom, citing an increased risk of violence and disorder following recent riots across the UK.
“This advisory comes in the wake of escalating unrest triggered by the tragic deaths of three young girls at a concert in Southport. Summary of the Situation The violence in the UK has surged in response to the deaths, with significant disturbances reported in several cities.”
Amb. Eche Abu-Obe, the spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, emphasized the importance of staying informed and exercising caution.
“Our primary concern is the safety and well-being of Nigerian citizens abroad,” he said.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs continues to monitor the situation closely and will update the advisory as necessary.
Nigerian citizens in the UK can reach the Nigerian High Commission via email at hc@nigeriahc.org.uk or by telephone at +44 207 839 1244.
