The Police in Borno on Thursday announced the restriction of vehicular movement in Maiduguri, as part of measures to ensure security during the Eid prayer marking Sallah celebration.
A statement signed by the Deputy Spokesman of the command, Nahum Kenneth, said the measure was among others taken to ensure the safety of residents.
He said that the Borno Commissioner of Police, CP Abdu Umar, has made adequate security deployment of officers and men across the state for effective security coverage throughout the celebrations.
He explained that the arrangement would cover all the eid praying grounds, malls and recreational centers where large numbers of people are expected to gather.
“To this end, high visibility patrols/stop and search, show of force with other sister security agencies, intelligence and information gathering will be intensified within this period and beyond.
“Furthermore, Safer highway patrol teams have been deployed to major highways in the state to ensure security of travelers and commuters.
“Sequel to the above, there will be restriction of vehicular movement from 7 a.m to 12 p.m. The restriction, though regretted, will include the use of motor vehicles, tricycles and bicycles except those on essential duties,” he said.
He advised Muslim faithful to pray at Eid prayer grounds close to their homes, and to ensure they go early enough for security screening.
“Parents, who go to prayer grounds with their children/wards, are equally advised to take proper care of them, so as to avert incidences of missing children.
“In addition, youths who carry knives and other dangerous weapons on their persons to prayer grounds or recreational centers, are by this release, warned to desist or face the wrath of the law.
“While wishing the public, especially Muslim faithful a happy EID-EL-FITR celebration, the Commissioner of Police enjoins members of the public to be law abiding, security conscious at all times and to report any strange or suspicious person(s), movements or object(s) to the nearest police officer and station,” he said.
