By Nkechi Eze
The Headquarters Joint Task Force (North East), Operation Hadin Kai, has issued a fresh security advisory warning of a heightened risk of suicide bomb attacks across the North East region in the closing days of Ramadan.
In a statement signed by the Media Information Officer, Lieutenant Colonel Sani Uba, the task force said recent security developments point to an increased threat from Boko Haram and ISWAP террорист elements targeting civilians during the period.
The warning follows recent incidents in Maiduguri on Monday evening, where attacks around Monday Market, the Post Office, and the entrance of the University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital resulted in casualties. According to the military, the attacks underscore the continued intent of террорист groups to strike densely populated civilian locations to create panic and gain propaganda advantage.
The task force noted that historical patterns show an escalation in террорист activities during significant religious periods, particularly around the 27th and 29th days of Ramadan, when mosques, markets, motor parks, and other public places witness increased human traffic.
Consequently, residents across the North East have been urged to remain vigilant and security-conscious, especially in crowded environments such as places of worship, markets, shopping centres, hospitals, bus terminals, and major road junctions. Worshippers attending evening prayers, including Taraweeh and Tahajjud, were advised to exercise caution and cooperate with security personnel conducting screenings and access control measures.
The military specifically called on the public to be alert to suspicious movements or individuals, particularly those loitering around crowded areas or attempting to evade security checks. Citizens were also advised to promptly report unattended bags, parcels, or unusual objects to security authorities.
Residents were further encouraged to avoid overcrowded places where possible, comply fully with stop-and-search operations, and maintain situational awareness at all times. Parents and guardians were urged to monitor the movement of their children, especially during evening hours and night prayers.
The statement also appealed to community leaders, religious authorities, market associations, and transport unions to support ongoing security efforts by sensitising their members and reporting suspicious activities without delay.
Operation Hadin Kai assured that security agencies across the region have heightened operational readiness, with increased surveillance, patrols, and protective measures around critical infrastructure and population centres to prevent further attacks.
The task force emphasised that public cooperation remains vital in counter-terrorism efforts, noting that timely information from citizens has previously helped to foil attacks and apprehend suspects.
It reassured residents of its commitment to safeguarding lives and property, urging the public to remain calm but vigilant and to promptly report any suspicious activity to the nearest security formation or through established emergency channels.
“See something, say something. Security is everyone’s responsibility,” the statement added.
