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U.S. issues security alert to citizens in Nigeria over ‘Take it Back’ protest in Abuja

The embassy warned of a potential confrontation between security agents and protesters, highlighting areas of the capital city that would be affected.

• June 4, 2026
protests in Abuja
protests in Abuja used to illustrate story

The U.S. embassy in Abuja has issued a security alert over Take it Back protests, demanding the rescue of 46 abducted Oyo schoolchildren and teachers.

The security alert dated June 3 was published on the U.S. embassy website, warning American citizens ahead of the protests.

“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,” the security alert read.

The embassy warned of a potential confrontation between security agents and protesters, highlighting areas of the capital city that would be affected.

“If large protests do materialise, large numbers of police, roadblocks, and traffic disruptions in downtown Abuja are likely.  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 U.S. embassy in Abuja recommends that all U.S. citizens avoid these areas and take alternate routes.  If you encounter roadblocks or groups of protesters when travelling, you should immediately leave the area and find an alternate route or return home if you cannot safely travel to your destination,” it added.

The protest follows the prolonged captivity of Oyo schoolchildren and teachers abducted by terrorists on May 15.

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