Nigeria: Violent protests break out in Abuja November 8

Event

Violent protests broke out in the capital city of Abuja on Wednesday, November 8, reportedly after a taxi driver was shot and killed by soldiers. It has not been confirmed if the shooting in fact took place. The demonstrations started in the Wuse Market and spread into other areas of the city, including the Berger area. Taxi drivers blocked traffic and ceased operations, impacting thousands of commuters and motorists. According to local media reports, the protests started to subside around 13:00 (local time). Additional security personnel deployed into the area and have removed most of the barricades. Additional protests may occur in the coming days.

Context

Tensions are generally high between taxi drivers and security forces in the Wuse Market area, with drivers claiming that security forces harass them on a daily basis, extorting money from them and impounding their cars without just cause.

Advice

Individuals in Abuja are advised to avoid areas affected by the current unrest, as well as demonstrations more generally, as clashes between protesters and police cannot be ruled out. Traffic disruptions and increased security measures are to be expected in the vicinity.

Generally speaking, the security environment in Nigeria is complex and is particularly concerning in the northeast and extreme south of the country due to the presence of armed groups, high crime rates, and the risk of kidnapping. Some Western governments consequently advise against travel to certain areas of the northeast (e.g. states of Borno, Yobe, Gombe, Bauchi, and Jigawa as well as parts of Kano and Adamawa states) and the southern Niger Delta region (e.g. states of Delta, Bayelsa, Akwa Ibom, and Rivers). Professional security advice and support should be sought prior to travel to these areas.