The British High Commissioner to Nigeria, Richard Montgomery, has reassured Nigerians in the UK of their safety following a wave of anti-immigration riots.
Montgomery provided this assurance during a meeting with the CEO of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM), Abike Dabiri-Erewa, in Abuja on Wednesday.
The High Commissioner reported that 12 British towns have been affected by the riots, which erupted late last month. These protests were sparked by an anti-immigrant misinformation campaign that fueled outrage over a stabbing attack in Southport, northern England, which resulted in the deaths of three schoolgirls aged between six and nine.
Videos shared on social media showed large groups attempting to hijack cars driven by suspected immigrants, and other groups attacking a hotel housing asylum seekers in Rotherham.
Montgomery stated that over 400 individuals have been arrested in connection with the unrest, and 60 special courts have been established to address the situation. He assured Dabiri-Erewa that UK authorities are actively working to restore calm and normalcy to the affected communities.
He emphasized that the UK remains a welcoming home to people of all nationalities and races, and will continue to be liberal in allowing qualified individuals to live, study, and work in the country.
Dabiri-Erewa confirmed that no reports of harmed Nigerians have been received and expressed gratitude for the UK’s cooperation. She also reminded Nigerians to heed the UK travel advisory and urged those in the diaspora to stay safe.
Liverpool, Bristol, and Manchester—cities with significant foreign student populations—have also experienced protests.
