Bomb scare in Zamfara ahead of Jonathan’s visit
FROM ATTAHIRU AHMED, Gusau
Tuesday, October 12, 2010


President Goodluck Jonathan
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There is palpable fear in Gusau, Zamfara State capital following a text message purportedly being circulated by members of the Movement for the Emancipation of the Niger Delta (MEND) that President Goodluck Jonathan should expect another bombing as he plans to commission electricity projects in the state.

The message was sent to a journalist with a national newspaper (not Daily Sun) and other prominent individuals in the state through the mobile number: +2348185474732 and reads unedited:

Attention, MEND being a strong body in the Niger Delta province and protesting against so called Jonathan …XE are ready die in the struggle at all cost the special message to d service is that we are very much aware of the Ebele visit to Zamfara possibly something will happen no body will stop it what happen on October 1, 2010 is real. Lets innocent shy away from d venue as we shall surprise Nigerians bomb is terrible innovation and we are afraid of it please advice people to distant themselves or lost life okey Sokoto airport Zamfara govt house Zamfara

The text message came on the eve of the President’s visit to the state and there is panic among the people, especially, top government officials and security personnel.

It was gathered that as at press time special bomb squad had been deployed in areas within the state capital and the venue for the commissioning of the electrification project at Talata Mafara, which would connect Zamfara, Sokoto and Kebbi States to the national grid.
It was further gathered that armed and plain clothes security personnel had been deployed in major streets in the state capital to provide adequate surveillance and security.

When contacted the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO) Zamfara command, ASP Sanusi Amiru said the command was aware of the security situation in the country and had drafted special squad on bomb disposal to ensure adequate security at the venue.
He advised the public to remain calm and not panic as policemen were on red alert.