The United Kingdom has warned its citizens against travelling to Kano.
The warning, contained in a Travel Advisory issued today, also warned those who are already in the ancient town wracked by attacks by Boko Haram on Friday, to be wary of their movement.
The advisory reads: “On 20 January, a series of co-ordinated terrorist attacks took place in Kano targeting police and other government buildings. Reliable reports indicate that more than 100 people were killed. The Islamist group, Boko Haram, has claimed responsibility. As at 1200 hours (local) on 22 January the city is calm.
“The Nigerian authorities have lifted the post-attack curfew in Kano city during daylight hours on Sunday 22 January, but have announced the curfew will be in force from 1900 hours on Sunday 22 January until 0600 hours on Monday 23 January.
“In the light of Friday’s attacks, we are currently advising against all but essential travel to Kano city and for those in Kano city to remain vigilant and to exercise caution. DFID and British Council have limited their operations in Kano pending further assessment of the situation.
“Nigeria’s two main trade unions, the Trade Union Congress and the Nigeria Labour Congress, called an indefinite general strike which, commenced on Monday 9 January 2012, to protest against the removal of the subsidy. The declared aim of the strike was to close all offices, airports and seaports, banks, markets and petrol stations. The strike was officially called off on 16 January, but the possibility of further protest and disruption exists.
“There have been demonstrations and rallies in a number of Nigerian towns and cities against the removal of the petrol price subsidy.. Some of these have resulted in clashes between the police and demonstrators, with fatalities reported. You are advised to avoid all such demonstrations.
“A number of curfews are being enforced across Nigeria. British nationals are urged to comply with all curfews.
“On 31 December, following the recent bombings claimed by the Islamist group, Boko Haram, the Nigerian Government declared a State of Emergency in some areas of the country. The State of Emergency covers the following: Five Local Government Areas (LGAs) in Borno State – Maiduguri, Gamboru-Ngala, Banki-Bame, Biu, Jere; Five LGAs in Yobe State – Damaturu, Geidam, Potiskum, Buniyadi-Gujiba, Gasua-Bade; Four LGAs in Plateau State – Jos North, Jos South, Barkin-Ladi, Riyom; Suleja LGA in Niger State (which includes Madalla). The exact ramifications of the state of emergency remain unclear but it is reported that the international borders of these states have been closed.
“There is a high threat from terrorism in Nigeria. Attacks could be indiscriminate, including in places such as markets, hotels, shopping centres, places of worship and other areas frequented by expatriates and foreign travellers. Government and security institutions as well as international organisations have been attacked by Boko Haram.
“25 December 2011 A series of bomb attacks took place in Nigeria on two churches in Madalla (Niger State) and Jos (Plateau State) resulting in a reported 32 deaths and many other injured. Three separate attacks also took place in northern Yobe State which left four other people dead. The Islamist group, “Boko Haram, has claimed responsibility. Reprisal attacks cannot be ruled out so extreme vigilance is advised especially in the Jos area.
“Localised outbreaks of civil unrest can occur at short notice. You are advised to avoid large crowds, demonstrations and obvious political gatherings. Trouble on the streets can be spontaneous, and can quickly lead to violence. Details and advice are circulated via the British High Commission’s Community Liaison Officers’ network. We advise British nationals staying in Nigeria for three months or more to register with the British High Commission.
“There is a threat of kidnapping throughout Nigeria. Westerners have been the target of kidnaps. On 12 May 2011, a British national was kidnapped alongside an Italian national in Kebbi State.
“In recent months the Movement of the Emancipation of the Niger Delta has threatened to carry out attacks on oil and gas assets in the Niger Delta. The latest such threat was issued on 6 June 2011.
“Curfews are used on a regular basis in Nigeria following incidents and unrest, and can be imposed with short notice. You should be aware and take notice of any curfews. We advise that you pay attention to local media to find out about curfews that are being enforced.
“Nigeria experiences heavy rainfall during the wet season (June – September) and flash flooding can occur. Water-borne disease poses a greater risk during the rainy season.
“52 British nationals required consular assistance in Nigeria in the period 01 April 2010 – 31 March 2011. Violent crime is also prevalent in the south of the country, including Lagos.