Boko Haram Detainees Attack SSS headquarters In Abuja

Gunmen suspected to be Boko Haram members early on Sunday morning made attempts to attack the headquarters of the Department of State Service in Abuja.

However, the attack was promptly repelled as other security forces, including the military, were immediately mobilised.

It was also gathered that the terrorists’ plan was to attack the Presidential Villa, which is a stone throw from the SSS headquarters.

As at the time of filling this report, the road leading to the SSS headquarters had been condoned off as vehicles were turned back.

As part of the measures to secure Aso Rock, the gate from the Asokoro District end is now under lock as vehicles are being diverted to the gate at the Supreme Court end.

Meanwhile, the Presidential Villa was calm when our reporter visited. The Sunday service at the Villa Chapel was going on as scheduled.

However, security had been beefed up at the various entry points to the Abuja City.

From the airport road end, armed Nigerian Air Force personnel were stationed at strategic places, pointing guns at motorists as they drive past.

Also, military helicopters have been deployed around the city.

As at press time, the choppers were hovering around Abuja, especially the Presidential Villa.

However, the DSS claimed it was an attempted jail break.

A statement on Sunday by the spokesperson of the service, Marilyn Ogar, said: “At 0715 hours, the Service suspect handler went to the detention facility within the Headquarters to feed the suspects. One of the suspects attempted to disarm him by hitting him at the back of his head with his handcuff. His attempt to escape drew the attention of other guards at the facility who fired some shots to warn and deter others.

“The gun shots attracted the attention of the military with whom we have an understanding of mutual assistance in the event of any threat. The Army immediately deployed a team to reinforce our perimeter guards to forestall any external collaborators. 

The situation has since been brought under control.