Eid-el-Kabir: Military Alerts North-East Residents to Potential Terror Threats
The military has issued a security advisory to residents of Nigeria’s North-East region, warning of possible terrorist attacks during the upcoming Eid-el-Kabir celebrations.
The warning was issued by the Headquarters Joint Task Force (North East), Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK), following intelligence reports suggesting that remnants of terrorist groups could attempt to target civilians during the festive period.
In a statement released on Monday in Maiduguri, the spokesperson for Operation HADIN KAI, Lt. Col. Sani Uba, said security agencies had received credible intelligence indicating that elements of the Boko Haram insurgency and the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) may seek to exploit the holiday season to launch attacks.
According to him, the suspected attacks could involve suicide bombers or improvised explosive devices (IEDs), particularly in crowded locations where large numbers of people are expected to gather for celebrations.
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To reduce security risks, the military advised residents to observe Eid prayers and festivities within their local communities whenever possible and avoid large open gatherings. Citizens were also urged to remain vigilant in busy public places such as markets, motor parks, banking halls and prayer grounds.
The command further encouraged members of the public to promptly report suspicious individuals, abandoned objects or unusual activities to security agencies through military checkpoints, police stations or civil-military liaison offices.
Residents were also advised to cooperate with security personnel during screening and patrol operations and to avoid unnecessary travel, especially at night or in areas with limited security coverage.
Operation HADIN KAI cautioned against the circulation of unverified information capable of creating fear and panic among the public.
The military also called on traditional rulers, religious leaders, media organisations and community stakeholders to intensify public awareness efforts and encourage the timely sharing of credible intelligence before and during the Eid festivities.
Reassuring residents, the command stated that troops remain on high alert and are fully prepared to respond to any security threats across the region.
“Operation HADIN KAI reassures all residents of the North-East that troops are on standby, fully prepared, and firmly in control,” the statement said.
