The Joint Task Force (JTF), North-East Operation HADIN KAI, has warned of possible terrorist attacks during the Eid-El-Kabir celebrations, cautioning residents to remain vigilant against threats from Boko Haram and the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP).
In a statement issued on Monday by the Media Information Officer of Operation HADIN KAI, Lieutenant Colonel Sani Uba, the task force said intelligence reports indicated that terrorists might attempt isolated attacks targeting civilians during the festive period.
According to the military, the attacks could involve suicide bombers and improvised explosive devices (IEDs), particularly in densely populated locations.
The warning comes ahead of Wednesday’s Eid-El-Kabir celebrations.
Despite the security concerns, the JTF assured residents that troops and surveillance assets had been deployed to critical and vulnerable locations across the North-East.
The military said Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance (ISR) assets had been fully activated, while patrols had been intensified in coordination with other security agencies, the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF) and community vigilance groups.
“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 said.
The JTF advised residents to observe Eid prayers and celebrations close to their homes and familiar environments and avoid large gatherings where possible.
It also urged the public to remain alert in crowded areas such as markets, motor parks, banking halls and prayer grounds, and to promptly report suspicious persons, unattended objects or unusual activities to security agencies.
Residents were further advised to cooperate with security personnel during screening and patrol operations, avoid unnecessary movements, especially at night, and refrain from spreading unverified information capable of causing panic.
The military appealed to traditional rulers, religious leaders, media organisations and community stakeholders to support security efforts by encouraging timely reporting of credible intelligence.
Operation HADIN KAI reassured residents that troops remained fully prepared to counter any threat and prevent terrorists from disrupting the celebrations.
“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.
