“There is an elevated risk of terror attacks in Nigeria, especially in Abuja.”
By Anayochukwu Agbo
The staff of United States Embassy in Abuja stayed at home on Monday for fear of expected terrorist attacks in Nigeria’s Capital City.
Only a very few expatriate staff were allowed to come to work and they moved in amoured vehicles in fear of the expected attacks.
The Department of States, on Sunday, October 23, issued a security alert to their workers in Abuja.
According to the Security Alert, “There is an elevated risk of terror attacks in Nigeria, especially in Abuja.”
They warned, “Targets may include, but not limited to, government buildings, places of worship, schools, markets, shopping malls, hotels, bars, restraints, athletic gatherings, transport terminal, law enforcement facilities and international organisations.”
Consequently, “The U.S Embassy will offer reduced services until further notice.”
In the meantime, they recommended five actions: “Avoid all non-essential travels or movement; stay alert; avoid crowds; review your personal security plans and keep your cell phone charged in case of emergency; and carry proper identification.”
Similarly, the UK Embassy which shares nearby plots with U.S Embassy adopted the same protocol, suggesting that both allies may have shared intelligence on the threat.
“There is an increased threat of terrorist attack in Abuja. You should stay alert, consider movements carefully, follow the local news and the advice of security authorities,” said the UK advisory.
Staff of both embassies stayed at home on Monday. If they needed any staff they would fetch the person with an armoured vehicle.
So far, the Nigerian authorities have not issued any advisory to Nigerians on the threat; niether have they denied any threat.
It was gathered that Americans are leaving the country. They fear the country is steadily moving towards instability.
