* DSS sues for calm, vigilance
The governments of the United States of America and the United Kingdom have alerted their citizens living in Nigeria about impending terror attacks allegedly being targeted at the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
The U.S Embassy issued its alert through a memo published on its website on Sunday.
The memo read: “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 embassy cautioned Americans and Nigerians to remain vigilant and avoid any unnecessary travel or movement at this time.
Meanwhile, the Department of State Service (DSS), on Sunday night, called for calm following the issuance of travel advisories by the United States (U.S) embassy in Abuja and the United Kingdom to their citizens resident in Nigeria.
The DSS said there is no cause for alarm, assuring that necessary precautions have been taken to protect lives and properties not only in the FCT but across the country.
Diplomatic missions or embassies usually issue travel advice to their citizens on security situations in their host countries.
Nigeria is fighting an insurgency mainly in the North east, but in July the Islamic State claimed responsibility for a raid on a prison in Abuja, which freed around 440 inmates, raising fears that insurgents were venturing from their enclaves.
In its alert, the U.S embassy announced that because of the threats, it would offer reduced services until further notice.
It warned its citizens to avoid all non-essential travels or movements, crowds, and be on the alert always.
“Review your personal security plans and keep your cell phone charged in case of emergency. Carry proper identification,” the embassy stated.
It also advised its citizens about how to get assistance when needed.
As recently as August 11 and 26, the U.S issued an alert on heightened security measures in and around the FCT, which it claimed had resulted in increased reports of vehicle searches and traffic checkpoints.
It urged its citizens to remain respectful if stopped for a vehicle check.
“Do not force your way through security checkpoints. Carry proper identification. Review your personal security plans and keep your cell phone charged in case of emergency,” it stated.