By Abu Adamu
The Headquarters Joint Task Force (North East), Operation HADIN KAI, has assured residents of the North East of adequate security arrangements ahead of the Eid El Kabir celebrations, even as it warned of possible attempts by remnant Boko Haram and ISWAP elements to launch attacks during the festive period.
In a security advisory issued on Monday, the military said intelligence reports indicated that terrorists could attempt isolated attacks on civilian targets using suicide bombers and improvised explosive devices, especially in densely populated areas.
The statement, signed by Lt. Col. Sani Uba, Media Information Officer, Headquarters Joint Task Force (North East) Operation HADIN KAI, said troops had already been forward-deployed to vulnerable locations across the theatre of operations to forestall any security breach.
According to the Command, surveillance, intelligence and reconnaissance assets have been fully activated, while patrols have been intensified in coordination with sister security agencies, the Civilian Joint Task Force and community vigilance groups.
The military, however, reassured residents that troops remained fully prepared and firmly in control of the security situation across the region.
“The Theatre Command wishes to assure the public that these threats have been thoroughly anticipated,” the statement said, adding that all necessary measures had been put in place to guarantee peaceful celebrations.
Operation HADIN KAI urged residents to remain vigilant throughout the festivities by avoiding unnecessary movements, especially at night, and exercising caution in crowded places such as markets, motor parks, banking halls and prayer grounds.
The Command also advised citizens to report suspicious persons, unusual movements, or unattended objects to the nearest security formation immediately, while warning against the spread of rumours or unverified information capable of causing panic.
It further called on traditional rulers, religious leaders, media organisations, and community stakeholders to support ongoing security efforts by encouraging residents to provide timely and credible information to security agencies.
The military extended Eid El Kabir greetings to Muslim faithful across the country and reaffirmed its commitment to denying terrorists any freedom of action during and after the celebrations.
“Operation HADIN KAI reassures all residents of the North East that troops are on standby, fully prepared, and firmly in control,” the statement added.