Security alert: U.S approach improper
The United States has issued a security alert to its nationals in Nigeria, principally to those in the Federal Capital Territory. Travel Advisory for Nigeria has been updated due to a heightened risk of terrorist attacks in Abuja. “We recommend U.S. citizens do not travel to Abuja at this time”.
In addition, on October 27, 2022, the Department ordered the departure of family members of U.S. Government employees from Abuja due to heightened risk of terrorist attacks, following the October 25 authorization of departure of non-emergency U.S. Government employees and family members from Abuja due to heightened risk of terrorist attacks.
“U.S. citizens should consider departing Abuja using available commercial options. U.S. citizens who wish to depart but are unable to secure commercial options to do so can contact the U.S. Consulate in Lagos at [email protected] for assistance.
In an alert issued to its nationals, the Embassy said targets might 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 organisations.
“The U.S. Embassy will offer reduced services until further notice,” the alert read.
The Embassy however, advised its nationals to avoid all non-essential travel or movements, stay alert, avoid crowds and review their personal security plans and keep their cell phone charged in case of emergency, including carrying proper identification.
Reacting, the Department of State Services (DSS), Nigeria’s secret police, swiftly told citizens there was no cause for alarm over US alert.
A statement by its Spokesman, Dr. Peter Afunanya, said, “The Department of State Services (DSS) has received several enquiries relating to the security advisory issued by the US Embassy in Abuja, on Sunday, October 23, 2022. The public may recall that the service had variously issued similar warnings in the past.
“While advising that necessary precautions be taken by all and sundry, the populace is enjoined to remain alert and assist security agencies with useful information regarding threats and suspicious criminal acts around them.
“Meanwhile, the Service calls for calm, as it works with other law enforcement agencies and stakeholders to maintain peace and order in and beyond Abuja.”
The US has ordered the departure of non-emergency U.S. Government employees and their families from Nigeria. This action has triggered fierce fears among Nigerians. It has been recorded that some schools, shopping malls, worship centers and even Julius Berger, a construction company have shut down operations following this security alert.
The Inspector General of Police, Akali Baba Usman, in trying to allay the fear of the citizenry said, the recent security alert is not true, urging members of the public to always bring relevant information to the police before making it known to the public.
IGP while inaugurating a modern police station and barracks in Ibusa, Oshimili North Local Government Area of Delta State, said, “How can you entered the country and said there is security alert, you didn’t inform police, and you go around telling your people don’t go to Abuja, return from Abuja.
Again, President Muhammadu Buhari has urged Nigerians not to panic over the recent travel advisory issued by the United States and United Kingdom Governments, warning their citizens to steer clear of Abuja because of the risk of terrorist attack.
The President hinted that security agencies have been raiding hideouts of terror suspects in Abuja and satellite towns in the last few days, but denied involvement of United States soldiers as earlier claimed.
Meanwhile, residents of Fakai and Zuru local Government Areas of Kebbi State are fleeing their settlements following sustained attacks by terrorists.
The IGP stressed, “When you have information on security, it is proper to inform the police and we will find way to tackle it, instead of taking it to the public.
“I am urging media not to help them spread such information. We are working in synergy with other security agencies to ensure the safety of residents,” he assured.
Nigeria for some years now have been battling and living with insecurity. It’s no longer news, though pathetic. In the course of fighting the menace, there have been victories and some imbalances.
Turkey in its benevolence has promised to make available drones in a way to assist in fighting insurgency in the country. If the U.S and the U.K have nothing to offer, they will be doing a disservice by aggravating the already heightened tension. The political, economic, emotional and psychological effects of the U.S’s action on the nation can not in any way be quantified.
Just like the IGP noted, one would expect that if the United States has any intelligence report, the best way to go about it is to get that security agencies informed. There should be a synergy, in a way of intelligence sharing, if truly they are our friends.
The DSS, Police Force and other security agencies have promised us of our security. Let it not be by word of mouth alone, it should be backed up with action. What needs be done, let them do. They must be proactive. They are well informed now. It can’t be a case of “we didn’t know before”. The government on its part should please give the agencies the necessary supports. Security matter is the business of all. Everyone with useful information should not be economical with it.
As much as we are not playing down on the U.S security alert, we feel the approach would have been different. If they have gone the right way, it would have been constructive, other than the devastating effect the alarm is having on our dear nation.
