The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has distanced itself from a purported circular on identified terrorist camps in some parts of the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja.
Spokesman for the service, Joseph Attah, disclosed that the document, capable of causing panic, was not issued by the service.
Attah, a Deputy Comptroller of Customs, dismissed the document which was circulated on social media and conventional news outlets as handiwork of fakers.
He described the issues raised in the fake circular as sensitive, adding that it was not in the service mode of operation to discuss it among its personnel in the such portrayed by the circular.
“That document was not from Customs.
Sensitive information that borders on National security like this could not have been communicated in this manner by the Service.
“Even though it’s not the first time to see false publications of auction sales, recruitment with Nigeria Customs Service logo on the paper, this calls for deeper investigation. It did not emanate from the Service” he said.
Meanwhile, the Coordinator of Defence Media Operations, Major General John Enenche has in a recent media statement assured residents of FCT and adjoining states of their safety following the spread of the fake circular
Enenche said operatives of the Armed Forces of Nigeria and other security agencies have been placed on red alert to secure citizens lives and properties.
“The Defence Headquarters wish to reassure residents of FCT and other adjoining States that the Armed Forces of Nigeria and other security agencies have been on red alert to combat crime and ensure effective surveillance of the Federal Capital Territory and other States of the country.
This is imperative sequel to a purported memorandum from the Nigeria Customs Service warning it’s staff on a possible attack on the FCT.
The Armed Forces of Nigeria working together with other security and response agencies particularly the core intelligence agencies hereby assure the general public that preventive and preemptive intelligence are ongoing.
The general public is thus advised to go about their lawful businesses undeterred. “Furthermore, the Armed Forces of Nigeria and other security agencies wish to assure the general public that the offensives against the common enemies of this Nation will not cease until normalcy is restored in all parts of the country.
Hence, the general public is equally enjoined to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity accordingly” he said in the Defence Headquarters press statement.