By Chioma Nnodim
In a bid to curtail the security threats in the nation’s capital, the
management of the Jabi Lake Mall in the Utako area of Abuja has shut down its operations.
It could be recalled that the United States embassy in Nigeria recently rolled out a terror alert warning of an elevated risk of terror attacks in Nigeria, specifically in Abuja. with government buildings, places of worship, schools, markets, shopping malls, hotels, bars, restaurants, athletic gatherings, transport terminals, law enforcement facilities, and international organizations as targets.
The Embassy advised American citizens in the country and those intending to visit, to avoid all non-essential travel or movement, stay alert, avoid crowd, review personal security plans and keep cell phones charged in case of emergency and as well carry proper identification.
As part of proactive measures, in a post on the mall’s Instagram page @jabilakemallnigeria, the management on Thursday revealed that although it wasn’t its intention to disrupt activities, they had taken the decision for the safety of shoppers and staff of the establishment.
Jabi Lake Mall added that they were reviewing the security situation with relevant authorities and that the mall would be reopened as soon as possible.
The post read “To all our valued shoppers, Jabi Lake Mall will be closed today, Thursday, October 27, 2022. This decision has been taken in the overall interest of the safety of all staff and customers of the mall.
“Centre Management is committed to minimising any disruptions; however, the safety of our staff and shoppers remains our highest priority. Management is constantly reviewing the security situation in consultation with relevant security authorities and will inform you when the mall will be re-opened.
“We apologise for any inconvenience caused and hope to provide you with a quality shopping experience soon.
“Thank you.”
Meanwhile, efforts to reach the FCT Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Josephine Adeh for more clarification proved abortive, since she could not reply her text message nor return calls.
