Sallah: OPHK troops warn of possible isolated Boko Haram/ISWAP attacks northeast

—- Urges for vigilance

By Ndahi Marama, Maiduguri

The Headquarters Joint Task Force (North East), Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK), has raised alarm over possible attempts by remnant Boko Haram terrorists and Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) fighters to launch isolated attacks during the Eid-el-Kabir celebrations in the North-East.

The warning was contained in a statement issued on Monday by the Media Information Officer of Headquarters Joint Task Force North East Operation HADIN KAI, Lt Col Sani Uba.

According to the statement, credible intelligence indicated that terrorists might attempt to target civilians using suicide bombers and Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs), especially in densely populated areas across the region, particularly in Borno State.

Uba, however, assured residents that the military had anticipated the threats and already deployed troops to vulnerable locations across all sectors ahead of Wednesday’s celebrations.

He disclosed that surveillance and Intelligence, Surveillance, Target Acquisition and Reconnaissance (ISR) assets had been activated, while patrols had been intensified in collaboration with sister security agencies, the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF), and local vigilance groups.

The statement read in part: “Operation HADIN KAI extends warm felicitations to all Muslim faithful ahead of the Eid-el-Kabir 1447AH celebrations scheduled for Wednesday, 28 May 2026, and wishes all residents of the North East a peaceful and joyful festivity.

“Credible intelligence available to the command indicates the possibility of isolated attempts by remnant Boko Haram terrorist (BHT) and Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) elements to exploit the festive period to carry out attacks against civilian targets using suicide bombers and IEDs, particularly in areas of high population concentration.”

The command urged residents to remain vigilant during the celebrations by avoiding unnecessary movement, especially at night, and reporting suspicious persons or objects to security agencies.

Residents were also advised to avoid crowded areas where possible, cooperate with security personnel during patrols and screening operations, and refrain from spreading unverified information capable of causing panic.

The Theatre Command further called on traditional rulers, religious leaders, media organisations and community stakeholders to support ongoing security efforts through timely dissemination of credible information.

“Operation HADIN KAI reassures all residents of the North East that troops are on standby, fully prepared, and firmly in control. The Command remains resolute in its determination to deny terrorists any freedom of action and ensure that the Eid-el-Kabir celebrations proceed in an atmosphere of peace, safety, and dignity for all,” the statement added.

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