| In view of the recent statements attributed to the Movement for the Emancipation of the Niger Delta (M.E.N.D) with regards to foreign nationals leaving the Niger Delta before February 12 or face violent attacks; I would advise you all to exercise a high degree of caution in your daily activities.
Please advise the British nationals in your various areas and recommend that they access the Travel Advice section of the High Commission�s website which has been updated today. A link to the full article can be found at the bottom of this page. SUMMARY We advise against all travel to the Bakassi Peninsula and to the riverine areas of Bayelsa, Delta and Rivers States. We also advise against all but essential travel to the rest of Bayelsa, Delta and Rivers States. Localised outbreaks of civil unrest can occur at short notice. Details and advice are circulated via the British High Commission’s Community Liaison Officers’ network. Violent crime is prevalent in the south of the country, including Lagos. The most common problems encountered by British nationals in Nigeria are attempts by scam artists to extract money from their intended victims. These scams come in many forms and can cause considerable financial loss to victims. You should be aware of the threat from terrorism in Nigeria. A statement issued by Usama Bin Laden in February 2003 called for an uprising by Muslims in a number of countries including Nigeria. He suggested that �faithful Muslims� rise up against the Nigerian Government. He also referred to �support for brothers� in Nigeria in December 2004. You should be aware of the global risk of indiscriminate terrorist attacks, which could be against civilian targets. We strongly recommend that you obtain comprehensive travel and medical insurance before travelling. You should check any exclusions, and that your policy covers you for the activities you want to undertake. From Chief Oyibo… To read a full copy of the advice, cut and paste the following link into your browser. http://www.fco.gov.uk/servlet/Front?pagename=OpenMarket/Xcelerate/ShowPage&c=Page&cid=1007029390590&a=KCountryAdvice&aid=1013618386298 |
Feb122006