By Taye Obateru

Jos – Fear gripped residents of Jos, Tuesday, following rumours of  an impending attack by members of the Boko Haram sect.

As early as 6am, SMS messages started circulating that the sect would attacks the state capital. The SMS  advised receivers to be on the alert.

The text message read: “Information received that Boko Haram members are entering Jos today (yesterday). Do tell security men within your area please.— This has just been received. Ensure you relay this to many people for everyone to be vigilant and be on the watch out for seemingly lonely strangers loitering around buildings or gatherings. They may be carrying/hiding explosives, please.”

The text caused panic as parents did not send their children to school while many avoided markets and other places that could attract crowd.

An apprehensive  resident tod Vanguard that she did not go to her shop because of the rumour.

Security was beefed up at the state Police headquarters while visitors were subjected to thorough  checks. State Police Commissioner, Mr. Abdulrahman Akano, described it as a “preventive security measure.”

He told journalists that various measures had been put in place to ensue that the relative calm in the state was maintained.

Akano said: “We have put men out to gather intelligence. We have put policemen at strategic places in town. Above all, I will enjoin everybody to also to pray, because when it comes to someone who is watching you, who is scheming for you, only God can protect.”