The people of the state have had to celebrate religious festivals in the last six years indoors because vehicular movements were restricted as a result of Boko Haram insurgency.
But, vehicular movement was eased in the past one year as security improved with the capture of Boko Haram’s stronghold, Sambisa Forest.
However, the security situation has recently deteriorated with the recent attempt to invade Maiduguri by the insurgents, suicide bomb attacks at the University of Maiduguri, and highway ambushes, among others.
Consequent upon increasing security breaches recently restriction of vehicular movement has been reintroduced in Maiduguri, the Borno State capital by the Nigerian Government.
In order to check against security breaches during the Eid-el-Fitr celebration, the police have ordered that vehicles should be off the road in the early hours of the celebration when Islamic faithful are expected at prayer grounds.
In a signed press statement on Friday by the Borno State Police Public Relations Officer, Victor Isuku, Muslims had been advised to pray at prayer grounds close to their homes.
He said, “The restriction will include the use of motor vehicles, tricycles, bicycles and animals except those on essential duties.
“This restriction, though regrettable, is necessary in view of recent security concerns. Muslim faithful are, therefore, advised to pray at Eid prayer grounds close to their homes.”
