Keep up with the latest news and be part of our weekly giveaways and airtime sharing; follow our WhatsApp channel for more updates. Click to Follow us

Security has been tightened in the Federal Capital Territory following the circulation of a classified document reportedly linked to the Department of State Services (DSS), warning of planned coordinated attacks within the capital.

The document, which has spread online, allegedly listed several strategic locations, including the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, the Kuje Correctional Centre, and other sensitive facilities across Abuja.

Security agencies, including the Nigeria Police Force, Nigeria Immigration Service, and Nigerian Correctional Service, confirmed that security has been reinforced at airports and custodial facilities.

The alert was reportedly triggered by an internal memo from the Nigeria Customs Service, which warned of plans by Islamic State West Africa Province, Boko Haram, Ansaru, and JNIM to target the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Kuje Custodial Centre, and a military detention facility in Wawa, Niger State.

The document further suggested that ISWAP operatives had already infiltrated parts of the Federal Capital Territory in preparation for coordinated operations, possibly aimed at freeing detained insurgents.

Although authorities have not officially confirmed the authenticity of the document, security presence has since been intensified across the city.

Joint patrols involving police and military personnel have increased, alongside expanded stop-and-search operations at key entry points, transport hubs, and public areas.

In response to the situation, security agencies have heightened surveillance and operational visibility across the capital. Checkpoints have been strengthened, while patrol activities have intensified as part of preventive measures to deter potential threats.

Residents have reported increased security presence in major districts, with armed personnel stationed at strategic intersections and infrastructure corridors.

Fresh Memory of 2022 Kuje Prison Break Fuels Public Concern

The latest development has reignited public concern over the July 5, 2022 attack on the Kuje custodial facility, one of the most significant security breaches in recent Nigerian history.

During that coordinated attack, heavily armed assailants stormed the facility using explosives and sustained gunfire, breaching the rear perimeter and enabling a mass escape of inmates.

Subsequent nationwide operations led to the recapture of many escapees, while others remained at large for extended periods.

Security Expert Warns Against Poor Handling of Intelligence

Responding to the alert, two retired senior military officers, Gambo Mai Adua and Bashir Galma, emphasised the importance of disciplined intelligence management and coordinated communication among security agencies.

In an interview, security expert General Gambo Mai Adua (retd) urged both security agencies and residents to treat the emerging threat in Abuja with seriousness, highlighting the need for a proactive and coordinated approach.

He called on the military, police, DSS, and other agencies to heighten preparedness and remain fully alert to prevent any potential attack.

“This is a matter that must be taken seriously. The military, police, DSS, and all relevant agencies must remain vigilant and prepared to respond effectively,” he said.

The retired general also highlighted the role of elite units tasked with protecting the capital, particularly the Brigade of Guards, urging them to enhance operational readiness.

“We are aware that Abuja is protected by specialized units such as the Brigade of Guards. They must rise to the occasion and strengthen their operational posture,” he added.

He further stressed the importance of intelligence gathering, urging security personnel to deepen surveillance by integrating with communities.

“This is the time for intelligence officers, both military and police, to integrate within the population to gather actionable information,” he stated.

General Mai Adua also appealed to residents to support security efforts by staying alert and cooperating with authorities.

“Citizens must stay alert and work closely with security agencies. If they notice anyone suspicious, they should report or hand such individuals over to the authorities for proper investigation, as permitted by law,” he said

On his part, Major General Bashir Galma (retd) cautioned that while intelligence sharing is crucial, improper dissemination of sensitive information could have unintended consequences.

“Inter-agency cooperation is very important, but the way intelligence is communicated to the public must be carefully managed. If not handled properly, it can create panic or even assist those planning attacks,” he said.

Galma added that premature or uncoordinated release of threat information could give perpetrators the opportunity to adjust their tactics or evade detection.

“Once such information becomes public without control, it can weaken operational advantage. It may also reduce public confidence if not properly explained,” he noted.

He further urged authorities to improve communication with the public, ensuring that information is delivered in a structured and coordinated manner.

“When warnings are issued, there must be follow-up communication. If the threat does not materialize, the public should also be informed to prevent confusion and mistrust,” he added.

Residents React with Mixed Emotions

In Abuja, reactions to the reported alert have been mixed, ranging from confidence in security agencies to concerns about potential threats.

Mukhtar Ahmad, a trader at Wuse market, told ZINGTIE that while he was aware of the alert, he remained unconcerned.

“Nothing will scare us. We know the security situation in Nigeria, but this is Abuja where the President resides. This kind of alert has happened before. Lessons must have been learned, and it is unlikely for such a failure to repeat itself,” he said.

Another resident, identified as Muhammad from Nyanya, said daily activities have continued but urged authorities not to underestimate the situation.

“People are going about their daily business. However, security agencies must not take this lightly. In the past, warnings were ignored and it resulted in attacks that could have been prevented,” he said.

Meanwhile, Juliet, a student of the University of Abuja, expressed concern over the development.

“Honestly, I am scared. I am anxious about what could happen. I just hope security agencies will act quickly to prevent any attack,” she said.

Efforts to reach the Police Public Relations Officer of the FCT Command, DSP Josephine Adeh, for comments were unsuccessful, as she did not respond to calls or messages sent to her.

Security agencies are yet to issue an official public statement on the leaked document, but surveillance operations continue to intensify across Abuja.

Please don’t forget to “Allow the notification” so you will be the first to get our gist when we publish it. 
Drop your comment in the section below, and don’t forget to share the post.