Officials at the British Foreign Office have continued to warn against “all travel” to Cote d’Ivoire as the endgame in the disputed presidential elections approaches.

Three generals loyal to Ivory Coast’s besieged president Laurent Gbagbo are reportedly negotiating terms for his surrender in return for guarantees of safety for him and themselves.

The negotiations are expected to lead to his departure in the coming days.

Troops loyal to his rival, UN-recognised president Alassane Ouattara, say they have surrounded the compound where Gbagbo is sheltering in the capital Abidjan.

Gbagbo had repeatedly refused to leave office following his defeated in a general election in November.

The UN certified the result appointed his rival to the presidency, with the situation teetering on civil war since.

“The security situation following the disputed Presidential election on November 28th continues to be extremely volatile,” read a Foreign Office statement.

“Due to the escalating tension and threat of widespread instability and violence throughout the country, including significant military activity, British nationals are advised to stay at home.”

Heavy fighting is reported in some parts of the main city Abidjan.

Cote d’Ivoire’s land and sea borders are now closed until further notice.

French military forces moved to secure Abidjan airport on April 3rd, but commercial flights have been suspended.