The British High Commissioner to Nigeria, Richard Montgomery, has assured the Nigerian diaspora in the United Kingdom of their safety following recent unrest in various cities across the country.
Montgomery gave the assurance during a meeting with the Chairman of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission, Abike Dabiri-Erewa.
In a statement signed by Gabriel Odu of the media and Public Relations Unit in the commission, Montgomery addressed concerns about the disturbances affecting 12 towns in the UK.
He revealed that the UK government was implementing measures to restore order, including the establishment of a special task force of 60 courts with police and legal operatives to tackle the criminal activities linked to the unrest.
Montgomery emphasized the UK’s commitment to being an inclusive and tolerant society, reaffirming that the country would not accept discrimination or attacks against any community. He stated, “We will not, as a country, accept discrimination or attacks against any community.”
The government is also taking steps to address online incitement and misinformation, the British High Commissioner stated.
Dabiri-Erewa commended the UK government for its swift response and noted that, to date, no Nigerians had been reported harmed or affected by the disturbances. She reiterated the importance of the travel advisory issued by Nigeria’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and advised Nigerians in the UK to remain vigilant and cautious.
Montgomery also revealed that around 430,000 Nigerian visa applications were successful this year. He advised applicants to apply directly and be cautious of using agents.
