UK Promises Enhanced Security for Nigerians During Anti-Immigration Riots
Following recent unrest in several UK cities, Dr. Richard Montgomery, the British High Commissioner to Nigeria, has reassured the Nigerian community in the UK about their safety.
He provided this reassurance during a meeting with Abike Dabiri-Erewa, the Chairman/CEO of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM), in Abuja.
The unrest began after the death of three young schoolgirls in a knife attack. Misinformation about the attacker being an immigrant and radical Islamist led to protests, which were then taken over by anti-immigrant and anti-Muslim groups.
NiDCOM reported that 12 British towns were affected by the chaos. Montgomery noted that over 400 people have been arrested, and 60 special courts, including UK police and legal staff, have been set up to handle the situation.
Montgomery assured that the UK remains welcoming to people from various countries and backgrounds who wish to live, study, or work there. He emphasized that the UK will seek justice against those spreading hatred and misinformation online.
He also mentioned that approximately 430,000 Nigerian visa applications have been approved this year and advised applicants to apply directly rather than using agents.
Dr. Montgomery confirmed that no Nigerians have been harmed in the unrest, and communications with the Nigerian High Commission and Diaspora groups have reported no casualties.
Dabiri-Erewa reminded Nigerians to follow the UK travel advisory and stay safe.
