US warns of more attacks in Nigeria after 150 killed

United States Mission in Nigeria warned that Boko Haram could bomb several locations in Abuja, including popular hotels like Nicon Luxury, the Sheraton and the Trancorp, Hilton.
The warning came a day after the sect’s overnight suicide attacks and shootings that left 150 people dead and several injured in northeast Nigeria.

The emergency message for the attention of US citizens warned the attack may occur during the Muslim Sallah holiday.

Nigeria declared public holidays for Monday and Tuesday to mark the Islamic feast of Eid-ul-Azha.

"All US Government personnel have been instructed to avoid these locations, and previously scheduled events have been cancelled," the statement said, adding that American citizens should expect additional police and military checkpoints, additional security, and possible road blocks in Abuja for the foreseeable future.

The statement did not give additional information regarding the timing of the possible attacks.

On Saturday, Boko Haram claimed Saturday attacks which included the bombing of a government building and gunning down over 63 people in the northern city of Damaturu, while another suicide attack in neighbouring Maiduguri town left four dead.

The group also attacked churches, mosques and some other public places with bombs even as they engaged the police in a prolonged gun duel, eye witnesses and locals said.
A spokesman for Boko Haram said the group is responsible for the series of overnight attacks.

An initial report by the Red Cross had put the toll to 67 but rescue agency officials said they counted up to 150 bodies at a Mortuary and various places in the cities.
The casualties in the Damaturu and Maiduguri attacks include seven policemen and two soldiers while 16 persons were injured, they said.

President Goodluck Jonathan condemned the deadly attacks, said a statement from his spokesman Reuben Abati.

"These types of killings are not acceptable and the President is doing everything possible to stop them and security agencies have been mandated to stop such dastardly attacks on the citizens," Abati said.

The string of attacks came two days ahead of the annual Muslim celebration of Eid.
Police and security officials have been put on high alert throughout the country.

The Boko Haram sect has been responsible for a number of sectarian attacks in the recent past in northern Nigeria, posing a big challenge to the nation's security agencies.
The group was also behind the bombing of United Nations' headquarters in the capital on August 26 which killed 23 people and injured over 70.