THE Headquarters Joint Task Force (North East), Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK), has raised alarm over possible terror attacks by Boko Haram and ISWAP elements targeting highly populated locations across the North-East during the forthcoming Eid-el-Kabir celebrations.
The warning was issued in a statement sent to News Point Nigeria in Maiduguri on Monday by the spokesman of the operation, Lt. Col. Sani Uba.
According to the statement, credible intelligence available to the command indicates the possibility of isolated attempts by remnants of Boko Haram Terrorists (BHT) and Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) fighters to exploit the festive period to carry out attacks on civilian targets. The groups, it warned, may deploy suicide bombers and improvised explosive devices (IEDs), particularly in areas with high population concentration.
Against this backdrop, the theatre command advised members of the public to conduct Eid prayers and festivities as close to their homes and familiar localities as possible, while avoiding large open gatherings where practicable. It also urged heightened vigilance in crowded public spaces such as markets, motor parks, banking halls, and prayer grounds.
Residents were further encouraged to immediately report any suspicious persons, unattended objects, or unusual movements to the nearest military checkpoint, police station, or civil-military liaison point. The command also called on the public to cooperate fully with security personnel during patrols and screening operations, and to avoid unnecessary movement, particularly at night or in areas with limited security presence.
Operation HADIN KAI also cautioned against the spread of unverified information or rumours capable of causing panic among residents.
The statement appealed to traditional rulers, religious leaders, media organisations, and community stakeholders to actively engage their communities and encourage the timely reporting of credible security information ahead of and during the festive period.
Reassuring residents, the command declared: “Operation HADIN KAI reassures all residents of the North East that troops are on standby, fully prepared, and firmly in control.”
