Political rallies, protests and violent demonstrations can occur with little notice throughout the country. International news events can sometimes trigger anti-Western demonstrations.”
By Deborah Hassan
365Daily – Days before the governorship elections in Imo State is scheduled to hold on November 11, the British (UK) government has warned its citizens to stay away from Imo and Kogi States due to the high risk of violence.
In a press statement issued on Friday, November 3, 2023, the UK Office said the states are endangered due to the incoming off-cycle gubernatorial elections in the respective states.
It warned: “Political rallies, protests and violent demonstrations can occur with little notice throughout the country. International news events can sometimes trigger anti-Western demonstrations,” adding that, “There is the potential for increased tension on Fridays.
The British government further stated that “throughout Nigeria, there are high levels of violent street crime, including muggings, car-jackings and armed robbery in Nigeria. You should be vigilant at all times.”
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) fixed November 11 for the off-cycle governorship elections in Imo, Bayelsa and Kogi.
On Thursday, November 2, 2023, President Bola Tinubu, while receiving some gubernatorial candidates in the election at the presidential villa, called for fairness in the conduct of the polls.