TheCable

The United Kingdom (UK) has closed its visa application centres in Nigeria owing to the #EndSARS protests.

The #EndSARS protests had persisted despite curfews — with reports of deaths, violence and burning of properties across the country.

In a statement on Wednesday, the UK said the decision to shut down its application centres is for the safety of its staff.

“Due to the ongoing protest in Nigeria and for the safety of both staff and applicants, our Nigeria centres will be closed for 48 hours at a minimum,” the UK said.

“For applicants with booked appointments within this period, please you will need to reschedule your appointment for next week, from 26th October 2020.

“We will continue to post regular updates on this page, so please keep checking back for the latest information on reopening.

“We sincerely apologise for the inconvenience and thank you for your understanding.”

On Tuesday, the United States shut its embassy in Lagos following the crisis that erupted in the state as a result of the #EndSARS protests.

The embassy asked all US nationals in the country to keep a low profile, avoid protest grounds and exercise caution when in large gatherings.