PeakNews Online
Barely 72 hours to the planned nationwide protests, Nigerian Lawmakers and some members of the Federal Executive Council (FEC) have fled the country, travelling abroad on the pretence of travelling to attend to health matters and summer holidays.
Last Tuesday, the Senate and the House of Representatives hastily shut down the two chambers of the National Assembly. This move was to allow members to process their visas and leave the country before the protests begin.
Several senators and House members, speaking anonymously to journalists, expressed concerns that they would be targeted if the protests go ahead. They recalled how in 2020, many lawmakers were attacked, and their properties vandalized by protesters.
One anonymous legislator told PeakNews Online that ministers, governors, and presidential aides are typically protected by security agents, whereas lawmakers often must fend for themselves. He noted that the unrestricted access Nigerians have to lawmakers places them at higher risk, especially during major uprisings.
The lawmaker cited the example of a recent protest in Kenya where protesters attacked the National Parliament and harmed lawmakers, while the president and cabinet members were shielded by security agents.
“We were supposed to adjourn for our annual break next week. But we had a meeting where many lawmakers voiced their concerns to the National Assembly leadership about the imminent threats to their lives if the protests occur. We requested an earlier adjournment date, and they agreed. Lawmakers who cannot afford private security are leaving until the unrest subsides. Some of us are heading to Europe or America, while others are going to Ghana and South Africa. With diplomatic passports, it’s often visa on arrival,” he said.
The legislator added, “I’ve secured my ticket and will be leaving Abuja this weekend. President Bola Tinubu is protected, as are his ministers and governors. I have no one to protect me if protesters attack. It’s safer to leave until things calm down.”
A travel agent at Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja, confirmed to Daily Sun that she has arranged emergency tickets for many National Assembly members in the past week, with destinations including Europe, the Middle East, and other African countries. She noted that the high demand for international flight tickets has nearly doubled their prices.
“Summer tickets have surged due to sudden demand from government officials. Many senators and House members are requesting these tickets. Some ministers are also seeking tickets, claiming they need medical checkups, but I doubt it. I booked a flight for one senator to the United States for nearly $3,000 for a return ticket. South Africa and the UK are the most sought-after destinations, followed by Turkey, Egypt, and Saudi Arabia. Even Ghana is on the list. One lawmaker jokingly told me he’s leaving Nigeria to save his head. He’s unsure how the protests will unfold, and I could see the fear in his eyes. I got a ticket to Turkey for him,” she revealed.
