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U.S. Embassy Warns American Citizens as #OccupyAsoRock Protest Looms in Nigeria
U.S. Embassy Issued Travel Advisory For Americans Ahead Of #OccupyAsoRock Protest
NEWS
The Nigerian Record.
6/5/20263 min read
U.S. Embassy in Nigeria | June 4, 2026 | News
The United States Embassy in Abuja has cautioned American nationals residing in Nigeria to steer clear of protest sites, large assemblies, and areas prone to security disruptions ahead of Thursday's planned demonstrations.
The demonstration, known as #OccupyAsoRock, was put together by human rights advocate and African Action Congress (AAC) presidential contender Omoyele Sowore in collaboration with the Take It Back Movement.
The advisory followed the deployment of heavily armed security personnel across key locations within the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) in anticipation of the protest. This has resulted in road closures, heavy traffic, and limited access to certain areas of the nation's capital.
In a security notice released on Wednesday, June 3, 2026, the U.S. Embassy alerted its citizens that the Take It Back Movement had called for protests in Abuja, adding that significant security measures and potential disruptions might accompany the events.
The embassy stated: "The U.S. Embassy in Abuja informs U.S. citizens that the 'Take It Back' movement has called for protests in Abuja tomorrow, Thursday, June 4, 2026."
It further warned: "If large protests do materialize, large numbers of police, roadblocks, and traffic disruptions in downtown Abuja are likely."
According to the embassy, heightened security and possible unrest are expected around the Federal Capital Development Authority (FCDA), Eagle Square, and the Central Business District.
"Roadblocks, traffic congestion, and potential confrontations between police and protestors are possible in the areas near the Federal Capital Development Authority (FCDA), Eagle Square, and the Central Business District," the alert read.
The mission advised Americans to avoid the affected zones and find alternative routes when necessary. "The U.S. Embassy in Abuja recommends that all U.S. citizens avoid these areas and take alternate routes," it said.
It added: "If you encounter roadblocks or groups of protesters when traveling, you should immediately leave the area and find an alternate route or return home if you cannot safely travel to your destination."
In preparation for the protest, armed soldiers, police officers, and operatives from the Department of State Services (DSS), the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), the Vigilante Group of Nigeria, and the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) have been positioned around the Presidential Villa and other strategic points in Abuja.
Security personnel have set up checkpoints and barricades on major roads leading to the government seat, restricting both vehicle and foot traffic. These measures have caused significant traffic jams in several parts of the city, particularly around the Federal Secretariat, National Assembly, and Supreme Court, forcing many commuters and drivers to look for alternative routes.
The #OccupyAsoRock protest was organized by Sowore and members of the Take It Back Movement in response to rising public anger over the kidnapping of schoolchildren, teachers, and other citizens across various parts of the country.
The demonstrators are calling for the immediate rescue and release of victims abducted in states including Oyo and Borno. They have argued that if the federal government cannot ensure the safety of lives and property, President Bola Tinubu ought to step down from office.
The protest was set to begin at Eagle Square before moving toward the Presidential Villa starting at 8:00 a.m.
In its advisory, the U.S. Embassy urged American citizens to remain vigilant and avoid protest venues and large gatherings. The precautions listed included: "Avoid areas where protests are taking place; avoid crowds; exercise caution if unexpectedly in the vicinity of large gatherings or protests; monitor local media for updates and be aware of your surroundings."
The embassy also advised citizens to maintain a low profile, carry valid identification, review personal security plans, keep mobile phones charged, and vary travel routes and times to reduce predictability. It further encouraged citizens to stay alert in public places such as shopping centers, places of worship, and entertainment venues.
The mission noted that the Consular Sections of the U.S. Embassy in Abuja and the Consulate General in Lagos would remain open, while advising citizens to monitor official channels for further updates.