Nigeria: Heightened security likely in Lafia, Nasarawa State, following unruly protests over controversial July 19 Supreme Court decision

Heightened security is likely in Lafia, Nasarawa State, over the coming days in the wake of disruptive protests that broke out in response to a controversial Supreme Court ruling upholding the March 18, 2023, re-election of Governor Abdullahi Sule. Supporters of Sule's challenger in the polls, David Emmanuel Ombugadu, took to the streets after the verdict was announced, with protesters using burning debris to block roads and police officers responding in force. Local businesses, shops, and schools in Lafia closed out of an abundance of caution.

Further clashes between demonstrators and security personnel, or among supporters of rival political groups are possible; other forms of violence, such as vandalism and arson, cannot be ruled out. Officials may impose restrictions or temporary curfews depending on the security situation. Localized transport and business disruptions are possible.