The U.S and UK governments have warned their citizens of possible terr#r att@cks in Nigeria, particularly in the capital, Abuja.
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According to a security advisory by the US embassy in Nigeria, there is “an elevated risk of terr#r att@cks in Nigeria, specifically in Abuja.” The embassy said the 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.
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As a result of this, the US embassy said, it will offer reduced services until further notice. It advised Americans in Nigeria to avoid all non-essential travel or movement, stay alert, avoid crowds, and follow local news and the advice of security authorities. Additionally, it advised Americans in Nigeria to review their personal security plans, keep their cell phones charged in case of emergency and carry proper identification.
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The advisory by the British High Commission in Nigeria is similar to that of the US.
“There is an increased thre@t of terr#rist att@ck in Abuja. You should stay alert, consider movements carefully, follow the local news and the advice of security authorities,” the UK advisory stated.
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Both embassies posted their advisories on their respective websites. The latest advisories occur about a week after the Australian embassy had advised its citizens not to travel to Nigeria.
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Meanwhile, The Department of State Services has asked Nigerians to remain calm but vigilant following the security alert issued by the United States and United Kingdom embassies in Abuja that there could be possible terr#rist att@ck in the city this week.
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The DSS in a statement by its Spokesman, Dr. Peter Afunanya, advised Nigerians to be cautious. The service, however, assured that it would work with other security agencies to maintain the peace.