The Central Bank of Nigeria has issued a security advisory to its staff, alerting them that ‘undesirable elements’ are planning to infiltrate state capitals and the Federal Capital Territory to perpetrate crimes.
In the advisory issued by the bank’s Security Services Department and dated April 28, 2021, the CBN stated that the undesirable elements were planning to abduct people for ransom.
“We write to inform all staff to take note of the elevated security alert condition around the country and of the need to take special care in their day to day activities.
“Security intelligence reports have informed of plan by undesirable elements to infiltrate various parts of the country particularly, state capitals and the FCT with the intention to perpetrate crimes of abduction and kidnapping for ransom or as recruits for terrorism.
“It is strongly suspected that these activities are likely to be carried out in the evenings and at night”, the apex bank said.
The CBN also asked its staff to exhibit extra caution while at home, enroute work or other locations, adding that they should be more observant of activities suggestive of abnormal happenings as to avoid falling victim.
“Avoid public drinking places and restaurants after (work) hours. Maintain very low profile and remain as inconspicuous as possible.
“Branches to close on official schedule times to enable staff leave for their homes. Avoid all travels (air or road) except absolutely necessasy and contact heads of security at the location of travel for additional advisory”, the bank added.
