US embassy cable - 02ABUJA236

UNCLAS ABUJA 000236 
 
SIPDIS 
 
 
DEPT FOR DS/DSS/ITA, DS/OP/AF, DS/PSP/FPD, AF/EX, AF/W 
 
 
E.O. 12958: N/A 
TAGS: ASEC, CASC, AMGT, PGOV, NI 
SUBJECT: VIOLENCE ERUPTS IN ABUJA'S MAIN MARKETPLACE 
 
 
1. A violent disturbance erupted this morning in 
Abuja's Wuse New Market between vendors and Nigerian 
National Police when the police attempted to dismantle 
the numerous illegal shops and residences in the busy, 
market area. As the police began their sweep, affected 
vendors and residential squatters responded in protest. 
 
 
2. The protest quickly degenerated into rock and bottle 
throwing. The confrontation spilled from the 
marketplace into sections of several main thoroughfares 
of the city, choking off traffic on some important 
arteries in the area near the market.  Several parked 
cars were set ablaze and passing vehicles and motorists 
were pelted with stones and bottles. 
 
 
3. One policeman was reportedly killed during the 
melee.  As the violence escalated, the Police called in 
reinforcements and they have been using tear gas and 
gunfire to disperse the crowds and quell the 
demonstration. We have no information about any 
civilian casualties nor about the number of police 
actually deployed.  It does not appear that any army 
units have been called to assist. 
 
 
4. There are no reports of American citizens being 
caught in the market upheaval.  The Embassy has 
directed all employees and family members to avoid the 
area until after the weekend.  A similar warden message 
was issued this afternoon. (Para 6.) 
 
 
5. Post management will continue to monitor the 
situation to determine if additional precautions are 
warranted. 
 
 
6. Text of Embassy Warden Message: 
 
 
   "A serious disturbance occurred in the Wuse New 
Market area this morning (January 25). The disturbance 
later intensified and spread to Berger Junction. There 
have been reports of gunshots and burning vehicles.  We 
have one confirmed report that a police officer was 
killed in the disturbance.  We urge all American 
citizens to avoid the area from Wuse Market to Berger 
Junction at least until the weekend.  Even after the 
violence has ended, the area will be unsettled and 
should be avoided as previously stated.  Please 
exercise particular caution throughout Abuja this 
weekend." 
Jeter