US Warns Of Imminent Bombing In Abuja

Barely one month after the United States, United Kingdom and Australia separately warned the Nigerian government that the violent Boko Haram sect was planning to bomb some churches during the Easter celebration, the U.S. again on warned of another imminent attack.

This time, the United States warned that the radical Islamist sect may attack hotels frequently used by foreigners in Abuja, Nigeria's capital.

The warning offered no specifics about the threat but says that the Nigerian government should be alert and taking precautions to stop such an assault.

The United Kingdom also issued an advisory to its citizens noting the U.S. message, saying its "existing travel advice is consistent with this warning."

Deb MacLean, a spokeswoman with the U.S. Embassy, said she could not offer any other information about the warning.

Part of the U. S. emergency message reads thus:

“The U.S. Embassy has received information that Boko Haram may be planning attacks in Abuja, Nigeria, including against hotels frequently visited by Westerners.

“The U.S. government has no additional information regarding the timing of these possible attacks.  The Nigerian government is aware of the threat and is actively implementing security measures.

"The Embassy reminds U.S. citizens to exercise additional caution. Please maintain a high state of vigilance and personal security awareness, particularly in and around Abuja, Federal Capital Territory, near Nigerian government facilities, diplomatic missions, large gathering places, hotels, markets and malls, and places of worship.  

“We advise all U.S. citizens to review their personal security plans, remain aware of their surroundings, including local events, monitor local news stations for updates, and report specific incidences of targeted violence to the U.S. Embassy in Abuja or the U. S. Consulate General in Lagos at the numbers below.”

April 23, 2012