- Safiu Kehinde
The Headquarters of the Joint Task Force (North East), Operation HADIN KAI, has warned residents of the North-East against large gathering ahead of the Eid-El-Kabir celebration.
While assuring the residents of adequate security ahead of the celebration scheduled for Wednesday, the military warned of possible attempt by terrorists to deploy suicide bombers and Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs) in densely populated areas.
However, the Theatre Command, in a security advisory issued on Monday by its Media Information Officer, Lt.-Col. Sani Uba, said troops had been strategically deployed across vulnerable locations within the theatre to ensure peaceful celebrations.
The command, while extending Eid felicitations to Muslim faithful, disclosed that intelligence reports indicated possible attempts by remnants of Boko Haram and Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) terrorists to exploit the festive period to attack civilian targets.
“Terrorists may attempt to deploy suicide bombers and improvised explosive devices (IEDs), particularly in densely populated areas.
“The OPHK assures residents that the threats had been anticipated and necessary preventive measures put in place.
“Surveillance and Reconnaissance (ISR) assets have been fully activated, patrols intensified, while security forces are operating closely with sister agencies, the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF) and community vigilance groups,” the military said.
The command advised residents to remain vigilant throughout the festive period and avoid unnecessary exposure to security risks.
It urged worshippers to conduct Eid prayers and celebrations close to their homes and avoid large gatherings where possible.
The command also advised members of the public to be watchful in crowded places such as markets, motor parks, banks and prayer grounds, while promptly reporting suspicious persons, objects or movements to security agencies.
Residents were further urged to cooperate with security personnel during patrols and screening exercises and refrain from spreading unverified information capable of causing panic.
Operation HADIN KAI also called on traditional rulers, religious leaders, media organisations and community stakeholders to support ongoing security efforts through timely sharing of credible information.
The command reiterated its commitment to denying terrorists freedom of action and ensuring that residents celebrate Eid El Kabir in peace and safety across the North-East region.