The military has warned Nigerians, especially residents of the North-East, to remain alert during the Eid-el-Kabir celebrations over possible attacks by suspected Boko Haram and ISWAP fighters.
Politics Nigeria reports that the warning came on Monday as security authorities said intelligence reports indicated that some terrorist elements may attempt to take advantage of the festive period to target crowded public places with suicide bombers and improvised explosive devices, IEDs.
The alert was contained in a statement issued in Abuja by the Media Information Officer of Operation HADIN KAI, Lt Col Sani Uba.
According to the military, intelligence gathered by troops suggested that remnants of the terror groups could launch “isolated attempts” against civilians during the celebrations, especially in busy locations with large gatherings.
“credible intelligence available to the Command indicates the possibility of isolated attempts by remnant Boko Haram Terrorist (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.”
The military, however, assured residents that troops had already taken proactive steps to prevent any security breach across the region.
It stated that security personnel had been deployed to vulnerable areas ahead of the celebrations, while surveillance operations and patrols had also been intensified across different sectors.
The statement explained that troops are working closely with other security agencies, the Civilian Joint Task Force, CJTF, and local vigilance groups to ensure that residents celebrate peacefully without fear.
“The Theatre Command wishes to assure the public that these threats have been thoroughly anticipated,” the statement added.
Authorities said troops had been stationed at critical points while intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance assets had been fully activated to monitor suspicious movements across the theatre of operation.
Residents were advised to avoid unnecessary movement during the celebration period, particularly at night and in isolated locations with limited security presence.
The military also urged members of the public to remain vigilant in crowded places including markets, prayer grounds, motor parks and banking halls.
Citizens were further asked to immediately report suspicious individuals, abandoned objects or unusual activities to the nearest security formation.
The command advised Muslim faithful to celebrate close to their homes and familiar communities where possible, instead of attending overcrowded public gatherings.
Security agencies also warned against the spread of rumours or unverified information capable of creating panic among residents.
The statement called on traditional rulers, religious leaders and community stakeholders to support ongoing security efforts by encouraging residents to share useful intelligence with authorities.
The military reassured residents that troops remain fully prepared to respond to any threat during the Eid celebrations.
