The United States Embassy in Nigeria has issued an advisory to its citizens alerting them of possible violence ahead of the forthcoming general elections.

In a notice titled ‘Possible Protests Leading to Elections and Restricted Movements on Election Days – February 25 and March 11’ the embassy urged its citizens to avoid rallies as “they can turn violent with little or no notice.”

The advisory further stated that citizens should have food and water supply for at least three days at home, in case movements are restricted beyond election days.

“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 (INEC)-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 the Government of Nigeria’s information about the restrictions.

“Rallies and demonstrations are commonplace before and after elections.  U.S. citizens should avoid any of these types of events, as they can turn violent with little or no notice.”