In light of recent unrest across several UK cities, Dr. Richard Montgomery, the British High Commissioner to Nigeria, has assured the large Nigerian diaspora in the UK of their safety and security. This assurance was provided during a meeting with Abike Dabiri-Erewa, Chairman/CEO of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM), in Abuja.

The unrest, triggered by the death of three young schoolgirls in a knife attack, was exacerbated by misinformation alleging that the suspect was an immigrant and radical Islamist. This led to protests being hijacked by anti-immigrant and anti-Muslim groups.

According to a NiDCOM statement on Wednesday, Montgomery reported that 12 British towns experienced disturbances. Over 400 people have been arrested in connection with these incidents, and 60 special courts, along with police and legal operatives, have been established to manage the situation.

Montgomery emphasized that the UK, home to people of diverse nationalities and races, remains open to qualified individuals wishing to live, study, and work there. He also stressed that the UK will pursue justice against those who spread hatred and misinformation online. “We will not, as a country, accept discrimination or attacks against any community,” Montgomery stated.

He further reported that around 430,000 Nigerian visa applications were approved this year and advised applicants to apply directly and avoid intermediaries.

Dabiri-Erewa confirmed that no Nigerians have been affected by the disturbances and noted that communications with the Nigerian High Commission and diaspora groups indicate no casualties. She also reminded Nigerians of the UK travel advisory and urged them to remain safe.