AKINWALE ABOLUWADE
Nigeria’s general elections holding on February 25 and March 11 might be trailed with protests, the American Embassy has said.
The fears were raised in an advisory to the United States’ citizens in Nigeria on the coming polls.
Noting that as usual, there would be restriction of movement nationwide during the elections, the Embassy advised its nationals via its website that they should avoid rallies in anticipation of possible violence.
The advisory titled, ‘Security alert – Possible protests leading to elections and restricted movements on election days,’ urged American citizens in Nigeria to have three days of food and water at home in case movement restrictions are extended beyond election days.
It reads, “The government of Nigeria will restrict the movement of all personal vehicles on election days across the country. Information from the government of Nigeria indicates that only law enforcement personnel and Independent National Electoral Commission-accredited election observers will be allowed to move freely along the roads.
“Based on past election practice, we anticipate personal vehicles will be blocked from any and all attempted road movement from 00:00 until 18:00 February 25 and 00:00 until 18:00 March 11.
“Please, be advised that movement restrictions may be extended at any time. Be alert to government of Nigeria information about the restrictions.
“Have three days of food and water in your residence in case movement restrictions are extended beyond election day; have a pre-packed bag that contains your travel documents, medications, toiletries, cash and clothes in case you need to relocate from your residence; avoid large crowds; be aware of your surroundings; keep a low profile; carry proper identification; review your personal security plans; keep your cell phone charged in case of emergency; monitor local media for updates.”
