Security Tightened As Boko Haram Targets UNIUYO

Lt. Col. N.U.V. Efik, Chief Security Officer of the University of Uyo, UNIUYO, in Akwa Ibom State, on Wednesday, confirmed that the institution was one of the targets picketed for attack by the radical Islamist sect- Boko Haram.

The CSO warned the students to be extra vigilant and security conscious as they resume the new academic session. He said a letter has been sent to that effect to the Vice Chancellor, Professor Comfort Ekpo, and other high ranking officials of the institution.
The former military chief also warned members of the community to take security precautions. The letter read in parts: "Intelligence reports received at this department indicate that the university has been earmarked as one of the major targets in the event of an attack in Akwa Ibom State. "Consequently, every member of the university community is urged to please be security conscious, observant and report any suspicious movement or thing to the security officer nearest to him or her. "As a pre-emptive measure to safeguard the university from attack, all small gates leading into both annex and town campuses would be closed to all between 12 noon and 3:00 pm every Friday. "Members of the university community are advised to use the main gates during the period as other measures deemed necessary for the safety of the community will be communicated to you from time to time" it said. Meanwhile, the information caused tension in Uyo, as security officials have been forced to take pre-emptive measures in other institutions across the state, believed to have been listed for attack by the Islamist. It was gathered that students and other members of the institution are observing the security measures while routine internal security checks on vehicles have been stepped up.

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