Following several instances of violence by government actors during demonstrations in Kenya over tax increases, Abike Dabiri-Erewa, the Chairman of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM), has advised Nigerians in Kenya to exercise caution amidst the ongoing protests.
Kenya has seen a number of protests in recent weeks in response to the government’s decision to impose tax increases, notably higher fuel costs. Clashes between protestors and law officers have occurred during these protests, which have been spearheaded mostly by opposition parties and civil society organizations. Both locally and internationally, reports of excessive use by security agents, including shootings and arrests, have sparked alarm. The Kenyan government has responded to the protests forcefully, using stringent measures to stifle agitation. This demonstrates the seriousness with which the administration is handling public dissent and includes the use of security forces and the approval of shoot-on-sight orders in some locations.
According to Dabiri-Erewa, the Nigerian Embassy in Kenya has been actively interacting with different communities to guarantee the security and welfare of its citizens, especially those who are students, as of Thursday.
This statement was given in reaction to remarks made on X by self-described activist Dr. Olukemi Olunloyo, who questioned Dabiri-Erewa and asserted that Nigerian people had not received any warnings from the Nigerian embassy regarding the rallies, in which Kenyan police had shot and killed eight protestors.
“The Kenyan government has ordered a shoot at sight and our youths in Kenya in particular have been advised to be cautious and careful. No Nigerian casualty at the moment and we pray for none,” Dabiri-Erewa said.
An official from the Kenya Medical Association confirmed that 13 protesters were killed on Tuesday after police opened fire during ongoing protests against tax increases. Kenyan Defence Minister Aden Bare Duale stated that the army had been deployed to support the police in addressing the “security emergency.”
Diplomatic contacts between Nigeria and Kenya are essential to handling the aftermath of the protests and defending the rights of Nigerian citizens, even as hostilities in Kenya continue to boil. In order to solve common issues and advance regional stability, there must be constant communication, collaboration, and respect for one another’s sovereignty. At the same time, proactive steps including improved consular services, public diplomacy campaigns, and emergency response procedures are needed to maintain the progress made in improving the safety and security of Nigerians residing in Kenya. These actions highlight how crucial it is to be ready and flexible when protecting Nigerian nationals overseas, especially in times of political or civil instability.
The advisory issued by NiDCOM to Nigerians in Kenya reflects a proactive approach to addressing concerns arising from recent protests and government actions. By emphasizing caution, safety measures, and diplomatic engagement
