The Headquarters of the Operation HADIN KAI has issued a fresh security alert, warning residents across the North-East region to remain vigilant amid heightened threats of suicide bombings by Boko Haram and ISWAP elements in the closing days of Ramadan.
The advisory, signed by Lieutenant Colonel Sani Uba, Media Information Officer of the Joint Task Force, follows recent attacks in Maiduguri, where explosions occurred around Monday Market, the Post Office, and the entrance of the University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital, resulting in casualties.
According to the military, the incidents underscore the persistent threat posed by insurgents who continue to target crowded civilian locations to instill fear and gain propaganda advantage.
“The unfortunate incidents recorded in Maiduguri further highlight the continued intent of terrorist elements to target densely populated civilian locations in order to create panic and gain propaganda advantage,” the statement said.
The Task Force noted that intelligence and historical trends indicate that terrorist groups often intensify attacks during significant religious periods, especially around the 27th and 29th days of Ramadan, when public spaces witness increased human traffic.
“Historical patterns show that terrorist groups often intensify their activities during significant religious periods… when places of worship, markets, motor parks and other public gathering areas experience increased human traffic,” it added.
Residents were strongly advised to remain security conscious and observant, particularly in crowded areas such as mosques, markets, motor parks, hospitals, and major road junctions. Worshippers attending Taraweeh and Tahajjud prayers were urged to exercise caution and cooperate with security personnel.
“Members of the public are strongly advised to remain security conscious, vigilant and observant of their surroundings, particularly in crowded locations,” the military warned.
The statement also outlined precautionary measures, including reporting suspicious persons or unattended items, avoiding overcrowded areas where possible, and complying with security checks and stop-and-search operations.
Parents and guardians were advised to monitor their children’s movements, especially during evening hours, while community leaders, religious authorities, and transport unions were called upon to support sensitization efforts and promptly report suspicious activities.
Security agencies, the military added, have intensified surveillance, patrols, and protective measures across critical locations to prevent further attacks and ensure peaceful observance of the remaining Ramadan period and the forthcoming Eid celebrations.
“Cooperation remains a critical component of counter-terrorism efforts. Members of the public are urged to remain calm but vigilant and to promptly report any suspicious activity,” the statement concluded.
