By Nchetachi Chukwuajah
The Borno State Police Command has advised worshippers to observe their Eid-el-Fitr prayers at designated grounds closest to their residences to minimise movement and avoid overcrowding.
The command said this in a statement issued on Thursday, March 19, by the command’s Police Public Relations Officer, ASP Nahum Daso, as part of measures to ensure a hitch-free Sallah celebration.
The advisory comes days after suspected suicide bombers detonated explosives at three locations in Maiduguri, including the Monday Market axis, the entrance of the University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital, and the Post Office Flyover area.
The statement added that the command, in collaboration with other security agencies, had deployed personnel at major gathering points, including Eid prayer grounds, markets, motor parks, and other vulnerable locations, for crowd control, traffic management, surveillance, and to conduct thorough screening of persons and items.
The command also announced the restriction of movement of tricycles across the state from 6:00 a.m. to noon on Friday, March 20.
According to the statement, the directive is aimed at enhancing security coordination, easing crowd management, and preventing potential security threats, and enjoined members of the public to comply strictly.
The statement further added that the Commissioner of Police, Naziru Abdulmajid, had directed Area Commanders, Divisional Police Officers and other operatives to intensify visibility policing, intelligence-led operations, and patrols throughout the festive period while upholding professionalism and respect for human rights.
The command also urged residents to remain vigilant, celebrate responsibly, and promptly report suspicious movements or objects.
It also advised parents and guardians to keep a close watch on their children, especially in crowded environments.
