US warns of terror attacks on Lagos hotels

The United States on Tuesday warned of possible attacks on expatriates and foreign visitors in Lagos during the public holidays marking the Eid-el-Fitri celebrations. The US Mission in Nigeria, in a statement on its website, said terror groups planned to attack hotels and waterfronts visited by expatriates during the holiday. 

“The US Mission in Nigeria advises that groups associated with terrorist activities might be planning attacks on hotels in Lagos frequented by international visitors, including those located on waterfronts, during the Eid-el-Fitr holidays,” the United States Consulate  Nigeria  said in a statement.

The Federal Government had initially declared Tuesday and Wednesday as public holidays, but extended the holiday to Thursday following the non-sighting of the moon in Nigeria on Monday which determines the end of the Ramadan fast.

The US warning, posted on its embassy’s website, which was not specific, was not the first warning about possible attacks on locations frequented by expatriates.

It stated, “The US Mission in Nigeria reminds you to review your personal security plans, remain aware of your surroundings, including local events, and monitor local news stations for updates. Be vigilant and take appropriate steps to enhance your personal security.”

According to an AFP report, a similar security warning was given in December last year and in May 2014, when diplomats were warned of possible attacks on two Sheraton hotels in Lagos.

Tight security in hotels, airport

Meanwhile, there was tight security around top hotels frequented by expatriates, wealthy Nigerians and politicians in the Federal Capital Territory on Tuesday.

One of our correspondents, who went round, observed that additional security measures had been taken to secure the Transcorp Hilton Hotel, Maitama.

A new security post with sandbags to protect security operatives had also been erected with armed security operatives on duty.

More sniffer dogs were also deployed while armed security personnel were seen manning strategic parts of the hotel.

At the Sheraton Hotel, the private security guards at the gate were seen meticulously screening vehicles entering the premises.

It was gathered that undercover security operatives were on the ground to foil any security breach and give full protection to guests and hotel workers.

US warns of terror attacks on Lagos hotels