U.S. Embassy Warns Citizens to Avoid Abuja Protest Areas Over Planned ‘Take It Back’ Demonstration

The United States Embassy in Abuja has issued a security advisory to its citizens in Nigeria ahead of the planned “Take It Back” protest scheduled for Thursday, June 4, 2026, in the Federal Capital Territory.

The protest, organised by the Take It Back movement, is aimed at drawing attention to the continued captivity of 46 schoolchildren and teachers abducted in Oyo State on May 15.

In a security alert published on its website on June 3, the embassy cautioned American citizens about possible disruptions and security concerns associated with the demonstration.

“The U.S. Embassy in Abuja informs U.S. citizens that the ‘Take It Back’ movement has called for protests in Abuja tomorrow, Thursday, June 4, 2026,” the advisory stated.

The embassy warned that large crowds could lead to increased police presence, roadblocks, traffic congestion and possible confrontations between security personnel and protesters in parts of the capital.

According to the advisory, areas likely to be affected include the Federal Capital Development Authority (FCDA), Eagle Square and the Central Business District.

“If large protests do materialise, large numbers of police, roadblocks and traffic disruptions in downtown Abuja are likely. Roadblocks, traffic congestion and potential confrontations between police and protesters are possible in the areas near the FCDA, Eagle Square and the Central Business District,” the embassy said.

It advised U.S. citizens to avoid the affected locations, monitor local developments and use alternative routes where necessary.

“The U.S. Embassy in Abuja recommends that all U.S. citizens avoid these areas and take alternate routes. If you encounter roadblocks or groups of protesters while travelling, you should immediately leave the area and find an alternate route or return home if you cannot safely travel to your destination,” the statement added.

The planned demonstration comes amid growing public concern over insecurity and the continued detention of the abducted Oyo pupils and teachers by their captors.