Soleimani

The United States government has issued a security alert to its citizens living in Nigeria amid rising tensions following Friday’s US airstrike which killed Iran’s most powerful military commander, General Qasem Soleimani near Baghdad airport.

Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has vowed to seek revenge for the strike, saying that a harsh retaliation awaits “the criminals whose filthy hands spilled Soleimani’s blood.”

Members of the Islamic Movement in Nigeria (IMN) popularly known as Shiites and some youths in Abuja had on Monday protested against the killing of Soleimani, burning American flags in the process.

While chanting angry songs in condemnation of the US act, the sect also demanded the release of their leader, Ibraheem El-Zakzaky and his wife, Zeenat from custody.

The protesting youths who were said to be unruly during the protest also paralyzed commercial activities in Mararaba and Nyanya on the outskirts of the city as traders who feared an escalation of their action locked up their shops.

Apparently fearing that the Iranians and their allies could extend their attacks to Nigeria, the US Embassy in Nigeria, through a statement posted on its website has issued a security alert for its citizens in the country.

In the security advisory dated January 3, the US advised Americans residing in Nigeria to review their personal security measures, be prudent and keep a low profile.

It said: “Due to recent world events, US citizens should review their personal security measures. While we have no specific threat information, it is prudent to remind ourselves of the following personal security actions to follow on a regular basis.

“Actions to take: Be aware of your surroundings, keep a low profile, avoid crowds and demonstrations, exercise caution when walking or driving at night, carry proper identification, review your personal security plans and monitor local media for updates.”