Guardian

Explosion Rocks Security Post, Others

At about 11.05 pm on Thursday, an Improvised Explosive Device (IED) exploded close to a police outpost in Layin Walin Street of Rikkos, Jos North Local Council of Plateau State, injuring one Alhaji Abubakar Adam who is now receiving treatment at an undisclosed hospital.

According to a statement issued yesterday by the Spokesman of the Special Task Force (STF), Captain Salisu Mustapha, “the police post, three other houses and a vehicle were affected by the blast. One person by the name Alhaji Abubakar Adam was injured and has been taken to the hospital.

“Investigation is ongoing and the situation in the area is calm. People have since been going about their normal activities. People are hereby enjoined to be vigilant and report any suspicious objects, persons or activities in their areas to security agencies.”

Following series of meetings with Moslems, Christian leaders, government officials, community leaders and other stakeholders in Plateau State since 13th August 2012 at the Police Officers Mess and the CP’s Office, the police command in collaboration with other security agencies, has put in place comprehensive security strategies towards ensuring peaceful and violent free Eid-el-Fitr celebration.

A statement signed by the Commissioner of Police, Mr. Emmanuel Ayeni, said that the Eld-el-Fitir prayers would not be observed at Rukuba Road and Polo Grounds, considering the security risk inherent, pending peaceful resolution of controversy surrounding the places, adding that alternative ground has therefore been provided at the Bauchi road motor park.

According to him, the Abattoir-Air Force Roundabout road would be closed to traffic during the Eid-el-Fitir prayers as traffic would be diverted to follow Dogon-Karfe through Old Airport Junction, to the praying ground at Fibre Mosque.

“Full security coverage would be provided at the agreed designated prayer grounds, as well as assurances of adequate traffic control in Jos metropolis and its environs. All persons, with special emphasis on the youths, should refrain from brandishing dangerous weapons and use of inflammatory statements before, during or after the prayers as

Ayeni stressed that the ban on use of motorcycles is still in force, adding that security agents would be on check for any violators.

“We want to warn that anybody, regardless of religion or status, would be arrested and prosecuted if found flouting the above directives. The good people of Plateau State are hereby assured of adequate security of lives and property, as the Police Command and other security agencies are fully committed to this task. We are opposed to any act that would dislocate the security equilibrium of the state. Let us desire a sustainable and enduring peace on the Plateau,’ he said.