Article:
Prince Harry and Meghan Markle’s recent visit to Nigeria has stirred controversy and raised eyebrows as the couple undertakes their trip accompanied by an extraordinary security detail in one of the world’s most dangerous countries.
The royal couple’s decision to travel to Nigeria, which ranks as the world’s 12th most dangerous country according to recent data, has drawn attention, particularly in light of Harry’s recent concerns about his own security in the UK.
While the UK government advises against all but essential travel to parts of Nigeria due to high crime rates, including a murder rate significantly higher than that of the UK, Prince Harry and Meghan’s itinerary has included visits to areas deemed as high-risk zones.
The recent abduction of dozens of students at the Kogi State University of Science and Technology, just hours before the royal couple’s arrival, has further highlighted security concerns. The brazen attack, carried out by armed kidnappers, underscores the ongoing security challenges facing the country.
Despite these risks, Prince Harry and Meghan have embarked on their 72-hour “private trip” with their own four-man security team, which they have personally funded. Additionally, Nigerian authorities have granted them unprecedented security measures, as their arrival at the Defence Headquarters in Abuja demonstrated. They were greeted with an astonishing 14-car convoy and armed military escorts.
Former royal protection officer Ken Wharfe, who accompanied Princess Diana on her visit to Nigeria in the early 90s, has criticized Harry’s decision to travel to Nigeria given the security risks. Wharfe questioned the rationale behind the visit, particularly in light of Harry’s concerns about safety in the UK.
Wharfe remarked, “If the situation deems that level of protection, then you do have to ask why he is there… A member of the British royal family is about as high a target as it gets, yet he is happy to travel there but question his safety in London; it does smell of hypocrisy.”
The royal couple’s trip to Nigeria comes on the heels of Prince Harry’s legal battle in the UK over his security arrangements. Despite his arguments that he still faces significant security threats, the High Court ruled against his appeal, stating that there had been no unlawfulness in the decision-making process.
As Prince Harry and Meghan navigate their visit to Nigeria amidst heightened security concerns, their trip has reignited debates over safety, privilege, and the responsibilities of royalty in an increasingly uncertain world.
