The Yobe State government has ordered the immediate closure of three major markets in response to credible intelligence indicating a potential terrorist threat in the region.
In a statement released Thursday, the Special Adviser on Security Matters, Brigadier General Dahiru Abdulsalam (rtd), announced that the markets in Katarko, Kukareta, and Buni Yadi—all located in Gujba Local Government Area—have been shut down for security operations.
According to Abdulsalam, the closure is part of “operational measures” to enable security forces to conduct targeted counter-insurgency actions. He emphasized that the decision was taken in the interest of public safety and to prevent any possible attacks by insurgents.
“We understand the temporary hardship this may cause, especially to traders and local residents,” Abdulsalam stated. “However, the safety of lives and property is paramount.”
The Special Adviser urged residents to remain calm and cooperate fully with security agencies as efforts continue to stabilize the area.
He further assured that the closures are temporary and that the markets will be reopened once the ongoing security objectives are achieved.
The Yobe government’s move is the latest in a series of counter-terrorism efforts aimed at curbing renewed threats by insurgent groups operating in the northeastern part of Nigeria.
