Following the threat of more bombings by ?the leader of outlawed Boko Haram Islamic Sect, “Abubakar Shekau” that his group are in Abuja, security was tightened Sunday with heightened stop-and-search across major routes leading into the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) and Jos. ?
The tightened security checks grounded movements over the weekend and worsened Easter Sunday when many residents along Nyanya-Maraba-Masaka axis and Air Port Road found their way to the centre of Abuja City blocked.
In Abuja, Special operations personnel from the police and other security agencies were on duty at various churches in Nyanya, Karu, Central Area, Wuse, Kubwa, Bwari and other areas, to make sure that residents had a quiet and violence-free celebration.
Daily Times observed that, vehicles were also not allowed to move close to the church buildings as a result of the security advisory issued by the police last week.
The force headquarters had urged worshippers to reduce the number of vehicles at Jumat and Church services to make the task of keeping surveillance on the worship centres easier for security personnel.
The police also advised that abandoned and disused vehicles should not be parked within or close to places of worship and residential areas, adding that vehicles parked overnight on those premises must be properly examined and identified.
A statement by the Force Public Relations Officer, Frank Mba, noted that empty containers and other receptacles (including dustbins) not in use should be properly disposed or stored far away from the reach of unauthorised persons.
It stated that flower pots and flower edges around residential buildings, offices and worship centres should be kept clear and regularly checked for foreign or suspicious objects.
?The police High Command also enjoins worshippers to make conscious effort to know fellow members of their congregation, as this will make it easier to know who is a stranger in their midst,? the statement added.
Daily Times also observed that many of the resort centres and gardens were deserted. Meanwhile, many of the resort centres were previously visited for relaxation during holidays.?
Also in Jos, security was also tight in Jos and its environs in preparation for the Easter season.
the State Commissioner of Police, Mr. Chris Olakpe said that the celebration was conducted without any breakdown of law and order in Bukuru and Jos metropolis.
He said, ?I am happy to tell you that everything went on fine without any threat to peace and security.?
