The Nigerian military has raised the alarm over possible terror attacks by Boko Haram and ISWAP at densely populated locations across the North-East during the forthcoming Eid-el-Kabir celebration.
The spokesman of the Headquarters Joint Task Force (North-East), Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK), Lt. Col. Sani Uba, gave the warning in a statement issued to journalists in Maiduguri on Monday.
“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 improvised explosive devices (IEDs), particularly in areas with high population concentration,” he said.
The theatre command, therefore, advised residents to conduct Eid prayers and festivities as close to their homes and familiar localities as possible and avoid large open gatherings where practicable.
It also urged residents to exercise heightened vigilance in crowded public places such as markets, motor parks, banking halls and prayer grounds.
The command further urged the public to report suspicious persons, unattended objects or unusual movements to the nearest military checkpoint, police station or civil-military liaison point.
Residents were also advised to cooperate fully with security personnel during patrols and screening operations and avoid unnecessary movement, particularly at night or in areas with limited security presence.
Daily Trust
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