From Uthman Abubakar Maiduguri
The military have raised alarm over possible terror attacks by Boko Haram and ISWAP at highly populated locations across the North-East during the forthcoming Eid-El-Kabir festive season.
“Credible intelligence available to the Command indicates the possibility of isolated attempts by remnant Boko Haram Terrorists (BHT) and Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) elements to exploit the festive period to carry out attacks against civilian targets using suicide bombers and IEDs, particularly in areas of high population concentration,” Lt. Col. Sani Uba, North-East Operation Hadin Kai (OPHK) Theater Command spokesman, warned in a statement issued to newsmen in Maiduguri, Monday.
The theater command, therefore, warned the public to Conduct Eid prayers and festivities as close to their homes and familiar localities as possible, and avoid large open gatherings where practicable; and exercise heightened vigilance in crowded public spaces such as markets, motor parks, banking halls, and prayer grounds.
The public, the theater command warns further, should report any suspicious persons, unattended objects, or unusual movements to the nearest military checkpoint, police station, or civil-military liaison point immediately; cooperate fully with security personnel during patrols and screening operations; and avoid unnecessary movement, particularly at night or in areas with limited security presence.
It urged the public to refrain from spreading unverified information or rumours capable of causing public panic. Rely only on official information from verified government and security channels.
The Theatre Command called on traditional rulers, religious leaders, media organisations and community stakeholders to actively engage their communities and encourage the timely reporting of credible security information ahead of and during the celebration period.
“Operation HADIN KAI reassures all residents of the North East that troops are on standby, fully prepared, and firmly in control,” the statement said. END
