Nigeria: Anti-government protests planned nationwide Oct. 1

Event

Activists affiliated with the Coalition for Revolution (CORE) political group under the #RevolutionNow umbrella has called for nationwide anti-government protests on Oct. 1 to denounce alleged poor governance. The action will coincide with Nigeria's Independence Day. In Lagos, participants will gather from 10:00 in the Ojota area. Gatherings in other major cities, including Abuja, are likely.

The Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) secessionist group has also called for a stay-at-home protest in the southeast of the country Oct. 1. The stay-at-home action is most likely to be adhered to in Abia, Akwa Ibom, Anambra, Bayelsa, Cross River, Imo, Enugu, Ebonyi, and Rivers states. The group has not announced any related protests; however, gatherings are possible.

The government has issued a security warning ahead of Independence Day encouraging members of the public to report any suspicious items or individuals. Authorities did not specify a specific threat; however, militants affiliated with the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) and armed criminal groups are active in the country and may conduct attacks on the day.

In addition to events announced by CORE and IPOB, other pro- and anti-government gatherings are likely on the day in cities nationwide. These are likely near government buildings and in city centers. Officials will likely increase security measures on the day, particularly near state facilities and official events. Related transportation and business disruptions are likely. The potential for clashes is elevated at anti-government gatherings.

Context

IPOB is seeking independence for the southeast. Deep divisions remain between Biafra separatists and the central government. The Biafra region includes various southeastern states such as Abia, Anambra, Imo, Enugu, and Ebonyi, and is inhabited largely by the Igbo people.

The CORE is led by political opposition activist, Omoyele Sowore, who was a presidential candidate in the 2019's general election. He was arrested for a short period after previously calling for nationwide anti-government protests as part of the #RevolutionNow movement.

Advice

Avoid all protests due to the potential for clashes. Anticipate business closures and disruptions to transportation and other services. Keep away from any location where security forces appear to be deploying; exit the area at the first sign of any confrontation. Heed the instructions of local authorities. Reconfirm all business appointments.