Stephen Ukandu, Umuahia
The United States Mission in Nigeria has raised alarm of possible terror attacks on Nigeria particularly the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja.
According to the US Embassy in Abuja, which issued the warning on Sunday, Government facilities and public places including worship centres are the targets.
US, therefore, warned her citizens to be careful about their movements in Nigeria, urging them to avoid non-essential engagements.
This was contained in a release obtained by Ikengaonline, which read in part: “There is an elevated risk of terror attacks in Nigeria, specifically in Abuja. Targets may include, but are not limited to, government buildings, places of worship, schools, markets, shopping malls, hotels, bars, restaurants, athletic gatherings, transport terminals, law enforcement facilities, and international organisations.
“Avoid all non-essential travel or movement. Stay alert. Avoid crowds. Review your personal security plans and keep your cell phone charged in case of emergency. Carry proper identification.”
Consequently, the US Embassy said it would offer reduced services until further notice.
Meanwhile, the Director, Defence Information, Major General Jimmy Akpor, said that the Intelligence community was aware and had put mechanism in place.
He assured that counter terrorism measures had been put in place to checkmate such activities.
Gen. Akpor told Nigerians not to panic as security agencies had been put on alert.
According to him: “This is not for the press, though the UK and the US embassies have raised the alert. Before it filtered to the embassies, the intelligence community has been on top of the situation.
“The press covering it, however, would only alarm and inflame the situation. It would serve no purpose unless it would stoke fear in the minds of Abuja residents.
“So, without any violent act of terrorism, the terrorists would have yet achieved their objective, because the primary objective of terrorism is to instill fear.”
Ikengaonline reports that terrorists activities have increased in and around the Federal Capital Territory in the recent times especially since after the attack on Kuje prison where hundreds of detained terrorists were freed.
Terrorists also attacked a segment of the National Guard in Abuja killing some soldiers, and thus created panic waves among residents.
