08 Apr 2020 | 10:32 AM UTC
Nigeria: Security forces and motorcycle taxi drivers clash in Bomadi (Delta state) amid COVID-19 lockdown April 7
Security forces fire tear gas at motorcycle taxi drivers who defy COVID-19 curfew in Bomadi (Delta state) April 7; further unrest possible in the near term
Event
Motorcycle taxi drivers clashed with security forces in Bomadi (Delta state) on Tuesday, April 7, as they defied coronavirus (COVID-19) quarantine measures. Security forces mounted road blocks in an attempt to prevent the taxi's from operating, leading to taxi drivers later mobilizing at the Tuomo roundabout to confront security forces. Tear gas was deployed to disperse the crowds. It is not clear whether any arrests were made or whether any injuries occurred.
A heightened security presence is to be expected in Bomadi over the coming hours. Further clashes between protesters and security forces are possible.
Advice
Individuals are advised to monitor the situation, avoid all protests due to the risk of violence, and adhere to any instructions issued by the local authorities. The security environment in Nigeria is complex and is particularly challenging in the northeast and extreme south of the country due to the presence of armed groups, high crime rates, and the risk of kidnapping. Professional security advice and support should be sought prior to travel to such areas.
