By Ayodele Oni

The Headquarters Joint Task Force (North East) Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK) has alerted that there is likely to be heightened banditry few days to end the Ramadan.

Reacting to Monday’s series of blasts in Maiduguri, Borno State, the task force, in a statement, explained that recent security developments indicate an increased threat of suicide bombing attacks by Boko Haram/ISWAP terrorist elements during the final days of Ramadan.

It added that “the unfortunate incidents recorded in Maiduguri on Monday evening, around Monday Market, Post Office, and the entrance of the University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital (UMTH), leading to casualties, 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, signed by Lt Col Sani Uba, Information Officer, stated that “Historical patterns show that terrorist groups often intensify their activities during significant religious periods, particularly around the 27th and 29th days of Ramadan, when places of worship, markets, motor parks, and other public gathering areas experience increased in human traffic.”

As preventive measures, the task force advised that  “members of the public across the North East region are strongly advised to remain security conscious, vigilant, and observant of their surroundings, particularly in crowded locations such as mosques, prayer grounds, markets, shopping areas, bus terminals, hospitals, and major road junctions.

“Worshippers attending night prayers (Taraweeh and Tahajjud) and other religious gatherings are encouraged to exercise caution and cooperate with security personnel conducting screening and access control procedures.

“The public is specifically advised to observe the following precautionary measures:

“Remain alert to suspicious persons or unusual movement/behaviour, particularly individuals loitering around crowded areas or attempting to avoid security checks.

“Report unattended bags, parcels, or suspicious objects* immediately to the nearest security personnel.

“Avoid overcrowded areas whenever possible and maintain situational awareness when attending places of worship, markets, or public events.

“Cooperate fully with security agencies during stop-and-search operations, security screening, and other safety procedures.

“Parents and guardians are urged to be mindful of the movement of their children, especially during evening hours and night prayers.

“Community/opinion leaders, religious authorities, market associations, and transport unions are encouraged to support ongoing security efforts by sensitizing members of their communities and promptly reporting any suspicious activities.

“Security agencies across the region have already heightened operational readiness and increased surveillance, patrols, and protective measures around critical locations and population centres.

“These measures are aimed at preventing any further terrorist attacks and ensuring that citizens can observe the remaining days of Ramadan and the forthcoming Eid celebrations in peace and safety. Public cooperation remains a critical component of counter-terrorism efforts.

“Timely information from vigilant citizens has repeatedly helped security forces prevent attacks and apprehend terrorist collaborators. Members of the public are therefore urged to remain calm but vigilant and to promptly report any suspicious activity to the nearest security formation or through established emergency channels.

‘The Theatre Headquarters reassures all residents of the North East that security forces remain fully committed to protecting lives and property and will continue to take all necessary measures to defeat terrorist elements and deny them freedom of action across the region.

“If you See Something – Say Something. Security is Everyone’s Responsibility.”