By Nkechi Eze
The Headquarters Joint Task Force (North East), Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK), has assured residents of the North East of adequate security arrangements ahead of the Eid El Kabir celebrations scheduled for Wednesday, 28 May 2026, while warning of possible isolated attacks by remnant Boko Haram and ISWAP elements during the festive period.
According to an official signed statement by the Headquarters Joint Task Force (North East), Operation HADIN KAI, comprehensive security measures have already been activated across the Theatre to guarantee peaceful celebrations and protect lives and property throughout the region.
The Command disclosed that credible intelligence indicates the possibility of isolated attempts by remnants of Boko Haram Terrorists (BHT) and the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) to target civilian locations using suicide bombers and improvised explosive devices, particularly in densely populated areas.
It, however, assured residents that troops had been strategically forward-deployed to critical and vulnerable locations across all sectors, while surveillance and Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance (ISR) assets had been fully activated to counter any emerging threat.
The statement further revealed that patrols had been intensified, with security forces working closely with sister security agencies, the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF), and community vigilance groups to maintain security and forestall any attack during the celebrations.
Operation HADIN KAI urged members of the public to remain vigilant throughout the festive period by avoiding unnecessary movements, especially at night, exercising caution in crowded places such as markets, motor parks, banking halls, and prayer grounds, and promptly reporting suspicious activities or unattended objects to security agencies.
The Command also advised residents to conduct Eid prayers and celebrations close to their homes and familiar communities where practicable, while urging citizens to cooperate with security personnel during patrols and screening operations.
Additionally, the Theatre Command cautioned against the spread of unverified information capable of causing panic, urging the public to rely solely on official information from verified government and security channels.
Operation HADIN KAI further called on traditional rulers, religious leaders, media organisations, and community stakeholders to support ongoing security efforts by encouraging timely reporting of credible intelligence within their communities.
Reaffirming its commitment to sustaining peace and stability across the North East, the Command stated that troops remain fully prepared and firmly in control to deny terrorists any freedom of action during the Eid El Kabir celebrations.
The Theatre Command also extended warm felicitations to Muslim faithful and wished residents of the region a peaceful and rewarding Eid El Kabir celebration.
