Boko Haram, ISWAP Planning Eid Attacks In North-East – Military Warns

The Headquarters Joint Task Force, North-East, Operation Hadin Kai, has raised the alarm over possible attacks by Boko Haram and Islamic State West Africa Province, ISWAP, elements during the forthcoming Eid-el-Kabir celebrations.

The military said credible intelligence available to the command indicated that remnants of the terrorist groups might attempt to target civilian locations during the festive period.

The warning was contained in a statement issued in Maiduguri on Monday by the spokesman of Operation Hadin Kai, Lt. Col. Sani Uba.

According to the statement, the suspected terrorists may attempt to exploit the festive season to attack highly populated areas across the North-East.

Uba said the planned attacks could involve suicide bombers and improvised explosive devices, especially in locations with large crowds.

He said, “Credible intelligence available to the Command indicates the possibility of isolated attempts by remnant Boko Haram Terrorists and Islamic State West Africa Province elements to exploit the festive period to carry out attacks against civilian targets using suicide bombers and IEDs, particularly in areas of high population concentration.”

The theatre command said the advisory was issued to ensure that residents remain alert and take necessary precautions before and during the celebrations.

The military urged residents to conduct Eid prayers and festivities as close to their homes and familiar localities as possible.

It also advised members of the public to avoid large open gatherings where practicable.

According to the command, residents should exercise heightened vigilance in crowded places such as markets, motor parks, banking halls and prayer grounds.

The command warned that suspicious persons, unattended objects and unusual movements should be reported immediately to the nearest military checkpoint, police station or civil-military liaison point.

Operation Hadin Kai also urged residents to cooperate fully with security personnel during patrols, screening operations and other safety measures put in place for the festive period.

The command advised the public to avoid unnecessary movement, especially at night or in areas with limited security presence.

It said the safety measures were not intended to create panic but to prevent terrorists from taking advantage of public gatherings during the celebrations.

The theatre command appealed to residents to avoid spreading unverified information or rumours that could cause fear or public panic.

It said traditional rulers, religious leaders, media organisations and community stakeholders must play active roles in sensitising their communities before and during the celebration.

The command urged them to encourage the timely reporting of credible security information to security agencies.

Operation Hadin Kai assured residents of the North-East that troops remained alert and ready to respond to any threat during the festive season.

The statement added, “Operation Hadin Kai reassures all residents of the North East that troops are on standby, fully prepared, and firmly in control.”

The military said it would continue to work with other security agencies, community leaders and residents to protect lives and prevent attacks throughout the festive period.