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The United States has issued a security alert to its citizens living in Nigeria amidst rising tensions in the Middle East, following last week’s airstrike that killed Iran’s most powerful military commander, Gen. Qasem Soleimani and Iraqi paramilitary chief, Abu Mahdi al-Muhandis near Baghdad airport.
Iran has vowed to seek revenge on the US, with the country’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei saying a “harsh retaliation is waiting for the criminals whose filthy hands spilled his (Soleimani) blood.”
Obviously fearing that the Iranians and their allies could extend their attacks to Nigeria, the US Embassy in Nigeria issued a security alert for its citizens in the country.
According to a statement posted on its website, the embassy advised US citizens living in Nigeria to review their personal security measures, be prudent and keep a low profile.
However, the embassy said it had “no specific security threat information” regarding its citizens in the country.
“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,” the statement said.