The Nigerian military and other security agencies have stepped up security across the country, in the wake of Saturday’s coordinated attacks on Paris, France, by suspected Islamic State (IS) terrorists. Investigation by New Telegraph revealed that the military, Police, the Department of State Services (DSS), as well as other relevant agencies of government, have been put on red alert, to frustrate any attempt by the IS or other global terror elements, to enter the country.
The Nigeria Police confirmed yesterday that they have since beefed up security nationwide. A highly placed source, who spoke in confidence with New Telegraph, said since Boko Haram pledged allegiance to IS, the need became compelling to strengthen security across board.
He added that the challenges of the time, also call for improved intelligence gathering, which he noted was very critical in the fight against terrorism and other serious crimes. According to the source, particular attention will be paid to airports, borders and other entry points into the country.
In like manner, surveillance will be intensified, while checks by the military at their designated points, will be enhanced, all in a bid to ward-off troublemakers. “All I can say is that concerned agencies – here I mean our gallant military, the Police, DSS and others – will build on their existing good works, both in terms of security, surveillance and intelligence gathering. “Our responsible synergy will continue, especially with what happened in Paris, which has attracted global outrage and condemnation. “One thing the public sometimes fail to appreciate, is the total commitment of security operatives towards protecting the lives and property of all.
“There is so much work going on, but you know the military and security agencies, are not expected to tell the public everything they are doing, to ensure a safe and secure Nigeria,” he said. He further drew attention to the arrests, at separate locations, of three top commanders of Boko Haram, who were among the 100 suspects recently declared wanted by the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Tukur Buratai.
“Police and other security agencies will continue to improve the nation’s security.” Meanwhile, the Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has said that it was “immaterial” to the Nigerian military, whether Boko Haram leader, Abubakar Shekau, was dead or alive.
The Acting Director of Defence Information (DDI), Colonel Rabe Abubakar, said the preoccupation of the military now, was how to defeat Boko Haram. “The DHQ maintains it earlier statement that whether Shekau is alive or dead is immaterial and non-issue, but what bothers us is to remain focus in further decimating the terrorists group. “All hands must be on deck to eliminate the group and urge all wellmeaning Nigerians to join the campaign in achieving this,” the DDI said.
