By Bob MajiriOghene Etemiku, our Abuja Coreespondent
Nigerian security, including soldiers, police and the Civil Defence Corps have been deployed to key areas, including markets in Abuja in an apparent show of power to forestall imminent terrorist attacks.
This proactive action followed a memo from the Nigeria Immigration service (NIS), that there is an imminent terror attack on soft targets in Abuja during the yuletide period.
Alltimepost.com Abuja correspondent saw the fearsome looking team codenamed Echo 6 and Echo 12 first on foot, armed to the teeth and battle-ready at the popular Banex Plaza. They took over the entire road, and warned residents from getting any close or taking pictures or videos.
At the popular Area 1 Shopping Centre, we ran smack into a huge traffic snarl from a long line of military and security personnel apparently combing the market for any signs of trouble from terrorists.
Some traders who spoke to Alltimepost.com said they were initially afraid to open their shops today following rumors that terrorists were planning to attack Abuja.
“We are happy that our soldiers and security people are here to provide us with needs security as we go about our businesses,”Saliu Ibrahim, a shop owner who sells bags told Alltimepost.com.
Not everyone at the Area 1 complex appeared happy to see the policemen and soldiers.
“See this hold up? It will extend to Area 10…why can’t they just position themselves at some points at this complex and monitor things instead of blocking the road and making us suffer in this heat,” a commuter said.
Beginning from yesterday December 23rd 2021 when the NIS memo spread around social media, many Abuja residents planning to do last minute shopping for Christmas have opted to remain at home.
Alltimepost.com call to FCT Minister, seeking more information concerning the security arrangements on the FCT during the Yuletide in Abuja rang out.
