Residents of the Federal Capital Territory will witness massive security presence during the Eid el-Kabir celebration as the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has deployed 4,000 personnel across Abuja to maintain peace and protect lives and property.
The FCT Commandant of the Corps, Olusola Odumosu, ordered the large-scale deployment ahead of the Sallah festivities to prevent crime and safeguard Critical National Assets and Infrastructure across the territory.
FCT Command spokesperson, Monica Ojobi, disclosed in a statement on Monday that officers drawn from special units including the Arms Squad, Female Strike Force, Crack Squad and Agro Rangers have all been mobilised for the operation.
The Command also deployed undercover Chemical, Biological, Radiological, Nuclear and Explosive (CBRNE) experts to sweep strategic locations for bombs and Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs) to stop any planned attacks during the celebration.
Mosques, Eid prayer grounds, shopping malls, markets, motor parks, recreational centres, amusement parks and other soft targets are to witness heavy security presence throughout the festive period.
Uncompleted buildings and notorious black spots believed to harbour criminals are also under surveillance to prevent security breaches.
Odumosu directed all Area Commanders and Divisional Officers to work closely with other security agencies to ensure hitch-free celebrations across the FCT.
The Commandant warned officers against harassment, intimidation and accidental discharge, insisting that strict compliance with operational rules would be enforced.
He also advised residents to remain vigilant, report suspicious movements to security agencies and avoid boarding tinted commercial vehicles or roadside pick-up vehicles commonly used by “one chance” gangs and kidnappers.
Warning vandals and criminals to stay away from government facilities and critical infrastructure, the NSCDC boss declared that covert operatives and patrol teams have already taken over the city.
He, however, wished Muslim faithful a peaceful and joyous Eid el-Kabir celebration.
