US Embassy Warns Citizens in Nigeria Over Shiites Protest

The United States Embassy in Nigeria has issued a cautionary advisory to its citizens residing in the country regarding an impending nationwide protest organized by the Islamic Movement of Nigeria, commonly known as Shiites. Scheduled for Friday, April 5, 2024, the protest is anticipated to primarily take place in the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja.  The embassy highlighted potential risks associated with the demonstrations, including roadblocks, traffic disruptions, and potential clashes between protestors and Nigerian security forces. While specific details such as timing and exact locations remain unspecified, the US embassy indicated potential protest sites based on past demonstrations, including prominent areas in Abuja such as Bannex Plaza, Berger Junction, Unity Fountain, and various mosques. In light of the security concerns, the embassy advised its citizens to exercise caution, avoid the protest areas, monitor local media for updates, steer clear of crowds, and maintain awareness of their surroundings.  Additionally, residents were urged to review their personal security plans and ensure their cell phones are charged in case of emergencies, while carrying proper identification at all times. Meanwhile, the Federal Capital Territory Police Command has assured residents of adequate security measures during the protest and beyond, emphasizing the commitment to maintaining peace and order in the region.

93 Unexploded Bombs Discovered In Lagos Cantonment

The Nigerian Army has confirmed the recovery of a total of ninety-three unexploded ordnance, or bombs, at the Ikeja Military Cantonment located in Lagos.  This significant discovery was made during the ongoing military operation known as ‘Exercise Clean Sweep,’ as announced in an official statement released on Thursday. The operation, which commenced on Tuesday, October 10, 2023, was initiated with the primary objective of decontaminating the area that had been the epicentre of a devastating bomb explosion back in 2002. The recovered ordnance varies in terms of their calibre and characteristics, according to the report from the Army. Colonel Abdulrazaq Kazeem, the Director of the Directorate of Explosives Search and Disposal and the Coordinator of Exercise Clean Sweep, provided an update during his first briefing.  He confirmed the retrieval of a total of ninety-three unexploded ordnance from the site up to this point. Despite prior efforts to clear and dispose of explosives at the site, remnants of unexploded ordnance have continued to be discovered within and around the vicinity of the bomb blast.  This persistent presence poses a significant threat to the safety and security of the Cantonment’s residents and the surrounding environment. Colonel Kazeem emphasized strict safety measures in handling these explosives, stating, “The moment we reach the maximum limits of explosives within our holding area, such ordinances will be moved to the range. If we get to the explosive limits today, I will move to the range today. We wouldn’t exceed a kilogram above the explosive limits because it is measured in kilograms. At 93, we have not yet reached the limits.” The Safety Officer, Lt. Col. Oluseyi Oladapo Bamikole, reassured that adequate safety measures had been put in place to protect personnel involved in the recovery efforts.  These measures include demarcations and trained personnel to identify unexploded ordnance before recovery from the site, ensuring the safety of both military personnel and the local community.