The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has issued a security advisory warning of a planned terrorist attack targeting Yola and other parts of Adamawa State during the New Year crossover night.
The advisory, contained in a statement signed on Tuesday by Joel Danjuma Manzo, president of the Gongola Baptist Conference and CAN chairman in Adamawa State, said the warning was based on “credible intelligence” from the Department of State Services (DSS).
According to the statement, suspected terrorists are planning attacks during crossover celebrations, prompting CAN to direct churches and Christian organisations across the state to suspend crossover night services in the interest of public safety.
“Information reaching us through reliable security channels indicates a serious security alert from the DSS regarding a planned attempt by terrorists to cause havoc within Yola and other parts of the state during the crossover night,” the statement said.
Manzo urged church leaders to treat the advisory with utmost seriousness and to immediately inform their congregations.
“It is wiser to suspend a crossover service today and, by God’s grace, hold many peaceful and joyful crossovers in the years ahead. Our priority is to ensure that everyone enters the New Year alive and safe,” he added.
In a related development, Adamawa State Governor Ahmadu Fintiri has cancelled the state’s annual New Year crossover event, which usually attracts large crowds and performances by Nigerian music stars in Yola.
Read also: Adamawa cancels cross-over night activities over insecurity
The suspension of both religious and government-organised crossover events underscores heightened security concerns in the state amid persistent threats posed by insurgency and terrorism.
CAN concluded the statement with prayers for peace and safety as residents prepare for a subdued transition into the New Year.
