The Department of State Services (DSS) has reacted to the U.S. report of threat of heightened terror alert in Abuja and warning to its citizens over insecurity, calling for calm.
On Sunday, the U.S. Embassy in Abuja warned Americans in Nigeria to be cautious of their movement in response to “elevated risk of terror attacks,” specifically in Abuja.
The Embassy said in a statement posted on its website: “There is an elevated risk of terror attacks in Nigeria, specifically in Abuja. Targets may include, but are not limited to, government buildings, places of worship, schools, markets, shopping malls, hotels, bars, restaurants, athletic gatherings, transport terminals, law enforcement facilities, and international organizations.”
“The U.S. Embassy will offer reduced services until further notice. Actions to Take: Avoid all non-essential travel or movement. Stay alert. Avoid crowds.In a security alert issued on Sunday, the US advised its citizens to avoid all non-essential travel or movement, stay alert and avoid crowds.”
But responding in a statement on Sunday night, Nigeria’s DSS said there is nothing new in the U.S. warning to its citizens as it had repeatedly issued similar warnings in the past.
A statement by Peter Afunanya, the DSS Spokesperson said: “The Department of State Services (DSS) has received several enquiries relating to the security advisory issued by the US Embassy in Abuja, today, 23/10/22. The public may recall that the Service had variously issued similar warnings in the past.
“While advising that necessary precautions are taken by all and sundry, the populace is enjoined to remain alert and assist security agencies with useful information regarding threats and suspicious criminal acts around them.
“Meanwhile, the Service calls for calm as it works with other law enforcement agencies and stakeholders to maintain peace and order in and beyond Abuja.”
