By Gideon Njoku
The United States Embassy In Abuja, Nigeria, has alerted on an imminent terrorist attack in Abuja, Nigeria’s Capital. For this, it has reduced its services in Nigeria until further notice.
In a security alert dated October 23, the Embassy said the risk of terror attacks in Nigeria, especially, Abuja, is elevated.
But the Department of State Services, DSS, has called for calm. The Service, in a release signed by its Spokesperson, Dr Peter Afunanya, asked Nigerians to go about their businesses but to be vigilant and cautious.
In the alert, the US Embassy listed could-be targets to include government buildings, markets, shopping malls, schools, restaurants, bars, places of worship, law enforcement facilities, transport terminals, among others.
It warned its citizens in Nigeria to avoid every non-essential travels or movements.
The issued Security Alert reads:
“Security Alert: U.S. Embassy Abuja (October 23, 2022)
“Location: Abuja Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nigeria
“Event: 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 organizations. The U.S. Embassy will offer reduced services until further notice.
“Actions to Take:
“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.
Assistance:
“U.S. Embassy Abuja, Nigeria
“Plot 1075 Diplomatic Drive, Central District Area
“+234 (9) 461-4328 and after hours +234 (9) 461-4000 press zero
“U.S. Consulate General Lagos
“2 Walter Carrington Crescent, Victoria Island
“+234 (1) 460-3400 during business hours and after-hours
“State Department – Consular Affairs
“888-407-4747 or 202-501-4444”
The DSS, in its response to the US Embassy’s alert said in a statement issued late Sunday night that: “The Department of State Services has received several enquiries relating to the security advisory issued by the US Embassy in Abuja today, 23/10/22.
” The public may recall that the Service had variously issued similar warnings in the past.
“While advising that necessary precautions are taken by all and sundry, the populace is enjoined to remain alert and assist Security Agencies with useful information regarding threats and suspicious criminal acts around them.
“Meanwhile, the Service calls for calm as it works with other law enforcement agencies and stakeholders to maintain peace and order in, and beyond Abuja.”
For over a decade, Nigeria has been under siege by terrorists, gunmen, bandits kidnappings all of which has resulted in the death of thousands of innocent citizens.
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