By Ikugbadi Oluwasegun
The Headquarters Joint Task Force (North East), Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK) has rolled out comprehensive security measures ahead of Eid El Kabir celebrations scheduled for Wednesday, 28 May 2026, assuring residents of the North East of a safe and peaceful festivity.
This was disclosed in a statement released on Monday by Lt. Col. Sani Uba, Media Information Officer for the Theatre Command, OPHK said troops have been forward-deployed to critical and vulnerable locations across all sectors. Surveillance and intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance assets have been activated, while patrols have been intensified. The operation is being coordinated with sister security agencies, the Civilian Joint Task Force, and community vigilance groups.
The command noted that credible intelligence indicates possible isolated attempts by remnant Boko Haram and Islamic State West Africa Province elements to exploit the festive period. The threats reportedly involve attacks on civilian targets using suicide bombers and improvised explosive devices, particularly in areas with high population concentrations.
Despite the warnings, OPHK said the threats have been anticipated and that troops are “on standby, fully prepared, and firmly in control.” The Command reaffirmed its resolve to deny terrorists any freedom of action during the celebrations.
To minimize risk, the command urged residents to hold Eid prayers and festivities close to their homes and avoid large open gatherings where practicable. It also advised heightened vigilance in crowded spaces such as markets, motor parks, banking halls, and prayer grounds, and called on the public to report suspicious persons, unattended objects, or unusual movements immediately.
Residents were further advised to cooperate with security personnel during patrols and screening, limit unnecessary movement, especially at night, and refrain from spreading unverified information that could cause panic.
OPHK called on traditional rulers, religious leaders, media organisations, and community stakeholders to engage their communities and encourage timely reporting of credible security information.
The command extended Eid El Kabir greetings to Muslim faithful for 1447AH and wished all residents a peaceful and rewarding celebration.
