Muslims in Maiduguri, capital of Borno State, will spend this year’s Eid el-Fitri indoors as the military has placed a ban on vehicular movement in the city during the celebrations.
The ban on vehicular movement was announced following a tip-off that Boko Haram insurgents were set to blow up certain areas of city during the period, according to a press statement by military spokesman in the state, Muhammad Dole, a colonel.
“The report at the disposal of the security agencies reveals that the terrorist have perfected plans to launch multiple bomb explosions in Maiduguri metropolis,” he said, revealing that main targets for the bombings include the Sallah praying grounds, markets and other public places.
In several operations carried out by the sect in recent times, vehicles such as Volkswagen Golf, Pick Up vans, Keke NAPEP, motorcycles and bicycles, have been used to conceal the explosives.
However, the ban which takes effect from Monday will make it difficult for Muslim faithful to get to the prayer ground for the Eid prayer marking the end of Ramadan.
“Members of the general public are advised to perform their Eidil Fitri prayer at prayer grounds nearest to their residences. While necessary security measures are being put in place, people are requested to comply fully with this ban as defaulters will be severely sanctioned,” Dole warned.
The public is also requested to report any suspicious movement of persons or vehicles to the nearest security agencies.
Already, security has been beefed up security in the state, with soldiers on the roads checking vehicles as they ply major roads in major towns.
The restriction on vehicular movement will expire on Wednesday after the two days holiday announced by the federal government.