The Kaduna State Government has banned all forms of social gatherings at public places ahead of the Eid-el-Kabir Muslim celebration for which the Nigerian Government has declared tomorrow and Friday public holidays.

Samuel Aruwan, Special Assistant, Media and Publicity to Governor Nasir el-Rufai, said the decision was taken yesterday at the State Security Council meeting.

Aruwan said in a statement issued this afternoon in Kaduna: “The Kaduna State Security Council at its 16th meeting, held on the 22nd September, 2015, deliberated on the general security situation in the State.

“The Council examined measures to enhance security of lives and property in the state, and reaffirmed the need to continue to engage citizens in building and maintaining security awareness.

“The Security Council commended members of the general public for supporting the Kaduna State Government and the security agencies to uphold peace, order and security in the State.

“The Council noted that soft targets have been attacked in several states, including ours. Government is therefore obliged to take actions to protect citizens and increase security activity. Therefore enhanced security measures will be put implemented in places of worship, including prayer grounds. Government regrets any inconvenience to citizens that may arise from such restrictions and security activity.

“In other to ensure hitch free Eid-El-Kabir celebrations and safeguard security of lives and property in the course of the Sallah festivities, the Security Council has taken the following security advisory measures:

“All parks and recreational centers, including Gamji Gate Park, the Amusement Park, Kaduna, and other related places will not be open for social gatherings.

“Murtala Muhammad Square, Kaduna, will, as usual, host Eid prayers. It will, however, not be open for any social gathering or celebration except for the Eid Prayers stated.

“The Council wishes the Muslim Ummah successful and hitch-free Sallah celebrations throughout the State.

“Furthermore, the Council appeals to citizens for increased vigilance. The people of Kaduna State are encouraged to report to the nearest security agency any suspicious persons or groups engaging in unusual activity.”

•Photo shows Governor el-Rufai.

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