Suspected terrorists early this morning attacked the headquarters of the Department of State Security Service (DSS) in Abuja.
Residents living around the area in Asokoro District, reported sporadic gun shots that lasted for about an hour.
Prompt News gathered that there was an attempt by the terrorists to attack the Presidential Villa through the gate that is almost adjacent the DSS headquarters.
The attack was said to have been immediately prevented with timely mobilisation of the military who moved armoured personnel carriers to the area.
As at the time our reporter visited the area, the road leading to the DSS headquarters has been condoned off and plain clothes security operatives were seen turning back vehicles.
Meanwhile, security has been beefed up at the Presidential Villa to guide against unexpected attack.
The Aso Rock gate from the Fire service end was locked when Prompt News visited.
Motorists entering the Villa were being diverted to take the gate at the Supreme Court end.
Also, to ensure security of lives and property in the Capital City, military helicopters now hover round while Air Force personnel have been deployed to strategic points at the airport road entry point.
The spokesperson for the DSS, Marilyn Ogar, however dismissed the attack, saying it was an attempted jail break by the terrorists.
A statement issued by Ogar reads, “At 0715 hours, the Service suspect handler went to the detention facility within the Headquarters to feed the suspects.
“One of the suspects attempted to disarm him by hitting him at the back of his head with his handcuff.
“His attempt to escape drew the attention of other guards at the facility who fired some shots to warn and deter others.
“The gun shots attracted the attention of the military with whom we have an understanding of mutual assistance in the event of any threat.
“The Army immediately deployed a team to reinforce our perimeter guards to forestall any external collaborators.
“The situation has since been brought under control. Further details will be communicated”.
Meanwhile, Presidential Media Adviser, Dr Reuben Abati, has reacted to the shooting, assuring Nigerians that President Goodluck Jonathan is well and fine.
Reacting through his twitter handle, the Media aide re-echoed what was said by DSS spokesperson, Marilyn Ogar that the shooting was as a result of an attempted jail break.
Abati’s twit reads, “What happened at the SSS HQs has nothing to do with the Villa. President Jonathan is safe and well. Thank you for your concern and support.”
