Nigeria: Curfew lifted in Sokoto city May 20 /update 3

Event

As of May 20 officials lifted the curfew previously imposed in Sokoto city, Sokoto State, following violent protests May 14. Authorities have also prohibited all forms of processions in the state until further notice. The protests and related measures come after Muslim protesters gathered in Sokoto to denounce the arrest of suspects linked to the murder of a Christian student at the Shehu Shagari College of Education May 12. The victim was killed due to an alleged act of religious blasphemy. Authorities had previously suspended the resumption of basic and secondary education in the state, initially scheduled May 15-16, until May 22-23. In Kaduna State, officials have banned religious-related protest activity following calls for demonstrations in the state in response to the May 12 incident.

Officials will likely maintain a heightened security presence in Sokoto and Kaduna states in the coming days. Authorities could increase security patrols in major cities and towns in impacted states and in other regions in the northwest in the coming days. Officials could also enact further movement restrictive measures, including curfews. Additional demonstrations in response to the May 12 killing are possible in the northwest. Likely gathering locations are city centers, religious centers, public squares, major road routes, or prominent government buildings. Religiously motivated violence may also occur. Targets could include individuals, communities, or religious sites, such as mosques or churches. Security forces are likely to deploy to and disperse any protests that occur. Ground travel delays are likely near all protest sites. Related business and state operation disruptions may occur in response to unrest or official measures aimed at curbing protest activity.

Advice

Abide by the conditions of the curfew. Avoid all protests as a standard precaution and to mitigate likely ground travel delays. Plan for road travel delays in and near protest areas. Heed instructions from the security forces. If any violence erupts nearby, immediately depart the area and seek shelter at a non-government building. Maintain contact with your diplomatic representation.