ECOWAS Warns Staff Over Heightening Terrorism In Nigeria
The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has issued a security advisory, warning its staff in Nigeria of the widespread concerns over the surge in acts of terrorism and violence across the country.
Security alerts have been raised over the growing spate of insecurity in the country, especially in the nation’s capital in recent days.
On Sunday, terrorists ambushed soldiers of the 7th Guards Battalion – a unit under the guards’ brigade which is responsible for protecting the president during a routine patrol along the Kubwa-Bwari road in Abuja. Three soldiers of the battalion reportedly sustained injuries during the attack. while some were killed.
Also, the federal government on Monday shut Unity schools in the FCT over security concerns.
However, in a security advisory entitled “ECOWAS Commission Immediate Security Advisory”, dated July 27th, the sub-regional body warned its staff of a plot by undesirable elements to infiltrate various parts of the country.
“This Immediate Security Advisory (I5A) is sent to ALL ECOWAS Staff to adhere to the current state of insecurity sweeping across the country lately. Intelligence reports warned of the plan by undesirable elements to infiltrate various parts of the country, particularly State Capitals, including the Federal Capital Territory, with the view to perpetrate crimes such as abductions and kidnappings for ransom, or as means of getting recruits for terrorist activities,” the circular stated.
According to ECOWAS, sensitive spots are the FCT Abuja and its environs.
Advising on protective security measures to be adopted, the trading bloc noted, “Please be advised that Intelligence gathered so far related to potential threats nationwide by the unknown perpetrators to EFFECT AGAINST POTENTIAL THREAT TO ECOWAS STAFF & cause security breaches
It added that “no site or precise location, itinerary is not known yet.
“Maintain environmental awareness on your route too, and from work. Watch out for anything abnormal around your surroundings, avoid and report the same immediately Limit social engagements as much as possible,” ECOWAS warned.
“Avoid going out at night, Staff members should be mindful and reminded of the reporting and closing hours according to staff regulations.
“Avoid public drinking places and restaurants, especially after work. Keep to the main road. Avoid using deserted/lonely routes and dark alleys. Be extra careful when using a rented vehicle Take appropriate security measures when approaching a checkpoint, and be prepared to take ambush/counter surveillance measures always.
“Be vigilant at places of worship, markets, motor parks, filling stations and shopping malls Staff members should not panic: The National security agencies are already at alert to mitigate the situation.”
Meanwhile, the Defence Headquarters has announced that its troops have eliminated 30 of the terrorists that laid ambush on troops of the 7 guards battalion in the Bwari area of the federal capital territory (FCT).
Bernard Onyeuko, director of defence media operations, during a press conference on Thursday, said the clearance operation was conducted by troops of 7 guards battalion and 167 special force battalion.
He added that the operation was in conjunction with the air component of Operation Whirl Punch between Sunday and Tuesday
“The hierarchy of the armed forces of Nigeria and other security agencies wishes to re-assured Nigerians of its commitment and pact with all Nigerians,” Onyeuko said.
“With the recent operations carried out from July 23, we wish to assure residents of FCT in particular that we are undaunted and unrelenting in our efforts to ensure the safety of lives and properties.
“People should go about their normal business as their safety is guaranteed. The support and cooperation of all Nigerians are hereby solicited as security is everybody’s business. Citizens are encouraged to report any unusual persons in your community to security agencies. If you see something, say something.”
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