The Defence Headquarters of the Nigerian Army has allayed the fears of residents in the FCT over the security alert issued by the United States Mission in Nigeria.
According to The PUNCH, the US issued a press statement on Sunday in which it listed Abuja amongst states that can face a possible terrorist attack.
It read, “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.”
On actions to take by residents, it noted, “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.”
However while reacting to the development, the Director, Defence Information, Major General Jimmy Akpor, said the intelligence community is aware and it has taken precautionary measures to address the situation.
He said, “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 have 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 instil fear.”
