British Envoy Assures Safety Of Nigerians Amid Ongoing UK Riots

The British High Commissioner to Nigeria, Richard Montgomery, assured Nigerians living in the United Kingdom that they were safe despite ongoing riots in some cities in the U.K.

During a meeting with the Chairman/CEO of Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM), Hon Abike Dabiri-Erewa in Abuja on Thursday, Montgomery said the U.K. government was doing everything possible to ensure things return to normal, especially among the affected communities, Leadership reported.

A Nigerian named Blessing Oyindamola -- working as a customer service advisor in Manchester -- revealed that she was preparing for her child's first birthday party and wanted to pick up the cake. However, the riots began and since then, she has been afraid to step out.

"We feel targeted but have not experienced any (violence) first-hand because we would rather not leave home," she said, Premium Times reported.

The riots started after three young girls were killed in a knife attack at a Taylor Swift-themed event in Southport, northern England, last week. Local news reports stated the riots have been fueled by online misinformation, far-right groups and anti-immigration sentiment.

An administrative assistant and data processor living in Bournemouth, Yemi Olawepo, said he felt safe because his city was calm until Tuesday. However, he was emotionally traumatized by the situation.

"At the moment, I do not feel targeted even if you do not feel targeted, you could be a target because you do not know the intent of the other person in the bus, at the bus station, while walking or passing by a handful of people," Olawepo said.

Olawepo's friend, Mamuzo Adums, who lived in London, expressed sadness over the situation, saying, "It is a shame what is happening in the UK... I knew there was subtle racism but I could never have imagined this will happen."

He urged Nigerians in the U.K. to counter any online messages from "racist hoodlums" and far-right influencers, adding, "We must not allow their lies fly. We are good people and we behave ourselves in an orderly manner in this country and should not be made to feel unsafe or suffer."

The British envoy to Nigeria said that more than 400 people have been arrested related to the unrest and expressed hope that the situation will be resolved soon.

Montgomery highlighted that the U.K. was a diverse country and will continue to welcome qualified people from different nations and races to live, study and work there. He also emphasized that the U.K. will pursue justice against those who spread hatred and misinformation online.