In response to recent travel advisories issued by the United States, the United Kingdom, and Canada, Nigerian Senator Shehu Sani has voiced strong objections, suggesting ulterior motives behind these warnings. The advisories come as Nigeria braces for planned protests over economic hardships, set to begin on August 1.
The US, UK, and Canada have each cautioned their citizens about potential unrest and violence during the protests. The UK Foreign Office warned of the risks of unrest from July 29 to August 10, while the US embassy advised Americans to avoid crowds and demonstrations. Canada echoed these concerns, warning that the protests “could turn violent at any time.”
Senator Sani, however, took to his verified Twitter account to question the necessity of these warnings. “There is no need for any country to issue travel advisory warning on Nigeria except if they are the ones sponsoring the violence or are privy to it,” Sani tweeted. He emphasized the resilience and enduring spirit of the Nigerian people, expressing confidence that the nation will navigate through the current challenges.
The planned protests, inspired by recent demonstrations in Kenya, are driven by widespread discontent over soaring living costs in Nigeria. Since President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration ended a costly fuel subsidy and eased foreign exchange controls, inflation has surged to record levels. In June, the National Bureau of Statistics reported inflation at 34.19%, with food inflation exceeding 40.87%.
While officials, security forces, and governors have urged young people to avoid protests, some have accused the organizers of treason and seeking to destabilize the country. In contrast, opposition leader Atiku Abubakar of the Peoples Democratic Party has called on the government to ensure the security of peaceful protesters, arguing that suppressing these rights is unconstitutional….Seë _ Morë