The Nigerian Army has revealed that suspected remnants of Boko Haram and the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) may attempt attacks during the upcoming Eid-el-Kabir celebrations in parts of North-East Nigeria.
The warning was issued by the Headquarters, Joint Task Force North-East, Operation Hadin Kai, which announced that extensive security measures have already been activated to ensure the safety of residents throughout the festive period.
In a statement released by the Media Information Officer of Operation Hadin Kai, Lt. Col. Sani Uba, the military said intelligence reports suggested that terrorists could attempt isolated attacks targeting civilian locations using suicide bombers and improvised explosive devices (IEDs), especially in crowded public areas.
According to the statement, the Theatre Command has already anticipated the threats and deployed troops to critical and vulnerable locations across all operational sectors in the North-East.
The military disclosed that surveillance operations and Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance (ISR) assets have been fully activated, while patrols across major routes and communities have been intensified.
Security agencies are also said to be working in collaboration with the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF) and local vigilance groups to prevent any security breach during the celebrations.
“Ahead of Wednesday’s celebrations, troops have been forward-deployed to critical and vulnerable locations across all sectors of the Theatre, surveillance and ISR assets have been fully activated, patrols have been intensified, and security forces are operating in close coordination with sister agencies, the CJTF, and community vigilance groups to forestall any threat and guarantee a secure festive period for all residents,” the statement read.
RESIDENTS URGED TO REMAIN ALERT
The military advised residents to observe Eid prayers and festivities within their local communities and avoid unnecessary movement, particularly at night or in areas with limited security presence.
Citizens were also urged to remain vigilant in crowded places such as markets, motor parks, banking halls and prayer grounds.
The command encouraged the public to promptly report suspicious movements, abandoned objects or unfamiliar individuals to the nearest security formation or civil-military liaison office.
Residents were further cautioned against spreading unverified reports capable of causing fear or panic among the public.
Operation Hadin Kai also called on traditional rulers, religious leaders, media organisations and community stakeholders to support security efforts by promoting timely intelligence sharing.
The military reassured residents that troops remain fully prepared and committed to ensuring peaceful Eid-el-Kabir celebrations across the region.
“The Command remains resolute in its determination to deny terrorists any freedom of action and ensure that the Eid El Kabir celebrations proceed in an atmosphere of peace, safety, and dignity for all,” the statement added.
