Boko Haram plans to disrupt Nigeria’s 2019 elections, US warns

The United States of America embassy in Nigeria has warned American citizens in the country that terrorist groups plan to disrupt the forthcoming 2019 general elections by carrying out attacks on Nigerian security and public places.

It, however, said it had no information on “any specific threat information to the U.S. Embassy or within Nigeria.”

In a statement published on its website,  the embassy advised it’s citizens to follow personal safety precautions on a regular basis.

“ISIS West Africa (ISWA) and Boko Haram have both stated they plan to disrupt the upcoming 2019 presidential elections by conducting attacks on Nigerian Security and infrastructure, as well as places of gathering such as markets, hotels, and malls.”

“While we have no specific threat information to the U.S. Embassy or within Nigeria during the election season, U.S. citizens in Nigeria should remember to follow personal security precautions on a regular basis.”

Nigeria has been involved in a war against Boko Haram and the Islamic State-backed insurgent group, ISWA.

Despite the Nigerian government claiming a technical defeat over Boko Haram, the insurgents have continued attacks on the North Eastern part of the country.

The war has led to the death of over, 20,000 people and the displacement of over 2 million people from their homes.

The US embassy also said US citizens should avoid crowds and demonstrations, keep a low profile and to stay alert in public places, including schools, hospitals, government facilities, places of worship, tourist locations, and transportation hubs.

The embassy further urged its citizens to carry proper identification, including a US passport with a current Nigerian visa, if needed and to exercise caution when walking or driving at night.

The 2019 election will commence with the Presidential and National Assembly, which will take place on the 16th of February, while the Governorship and State Assemblies elections will be held on the 2nd of March.