US issues fresh emergency warning to citizens in Nigeria

The United States Mission in Nigeria has warned its citizens to be on their guard over plans by extremists to attack American interests in Nigeria.

The warning came on the heels of protests in some countries against a film, “Innocence of Muslims,” which mocked some aspects of the Islamic faith.

The US Ambassador to Libya, Christopher Stevens, and three other diplomatic personnel were killed in one of the protests in Benghazi, Libya on Tuesday night.

There are fears that protests may erupt in some parts of Nigeria after Friday’s Jumat prayers.

The US Embassy, Abuja said the fresh emergency message was meant to update Americans on the current threat situation in Nigeria.

“The US Mission reminds citizens of the continued threat of terrorist attacks, demonstrations, and other violent actions against US citizens and interests overseas. Violent and deadly demonstrations and attacks occurred in Cairo, Egypt, and Benghazi, Libya, during the past 24 hours, including a lethal attack against the US Consulate in Benghazi. Extremists may attempt to target U.S citizens and other Westerners in Nigeria.

“The US Mission in Nigeria strongly urges US citizens in Nigeria to consider their personal security and to keep personal safety in the forefront of their planning.

“Last week, extremists attacked cellular telephone towers in Northern Nigeria, damaging over 30 towers and degrading cellular telephone and internet communications nationwide.

“Additional attacks could further weaken the ability of citizens to communicate through cellular telephones and the internet. Land line telephone communications in Nigeria remain limited. US citizens should attempt to arrange for multiple means of communication during emergencies.

“This year, extremists have attacked many locations in Nigeria, killing and injuring hundreds of people. They have threatened churches, mosques, media houses, police stations, immigration and customs offices, financial institutions, large hotels, shopping malls and markets, state government offices, communications centers, beer gardens, and nightclubs.

“Attackers have also burned and destroyed several public and private schools in Borno, and targeted several educational institutions in Kano and churches in Plateau, Bauchi, Kaduna, Niger, and Borno states. Additionally, extremists continue to target westerners for abduction. As such, the situation in the country remains fluid and unpredictable.

“All US citizens should use caution and discretion when deciding to attend large functions or visit establishments identified as potential targets, and respond appropriately if they detect suspicious activities. Because of ongoing security concerns within the Federal Capital Territory, U.S. citizens should continue to expect heavy traffic congestion, road blocks, and significant police/security force deployments. All U.S. citizens should remain vigilant, pay attention to their surroundings, limit exposure to large crowds, and keep their cellular telephones in close proximity for use in cases of emergency,” it said in part.