Threat: Security beefed up at Abuja hotels

Following the reported security threats to the top three hotels in Abuja, security has been beefed up at the affected buildings with deployment of additional security personnel.Our correspondent, who visited the hotels namely the Transcorp Hilton Abuja Hotel, Sheraton Abuja Hotel and Nicon Luxury on Monday observed operatives of the State Security Service at the facilities.Though the officials of the hotels were not available for comments, checks showed that the hotels had stepped up their security arrangements to forestall any attack.At the Sheraton hotel, motorists were asked to open their bonnets and boots for inspection by armed soldiers, who were supported by the hotels security guards.The officer in charge of security, Isaac Udoh, said he was not qualified to speak on the security arrangement in place, adding that the public relations manager was not on duty.The soldiers, who were also weary of journalists, expressed discomfort over the presence of journalists, saying they might be working for "the enemy."At the Nicon Luxury, State Security Service operatives as well as policemen were seen at strategic locations in the premises even as vehicles and guests were scanned at the gate.The poolside of the hotel was filled with fun seekers, some of whom were either swimming or eating as music blared out from loud speakers.Not a few ladies, some scantily dressed, lounged on sofas and in the bush bar drinking, eating and generally enjoying themselves.A businessman, Mr. Collins Ogenyi, who was at the poolside with his family, said he was not discouraged by the Boko Haram threat to the hotel, stressing that he was comforted by the presence of security personnel.He said, "I came to the hotel because the presence of security agents gives me confidence to be here. They (security personnel) are everywhere in the premises, so we feel safe. I believe the government is tackling the situation, the only thing is that we no longer see our friends and relatives as everyone stayed indoors out of fear."Ambassador Garrick, who was at the Sheraton hotel, advised the government to tackle what he called the desperate situation of the youth, adding that more should be done to address the security crisis in the country.He explained that he had to come to the hotel for a meeting in spite of the threat, insisting that he had to choose between staying at home or taking the risk of coming to the hotel to achieve a desired end.
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