Security forces have been placed on heightened alert in Malam Fatori, Borno State, following threats of a possible retaliatory attack allegedly issued by a cleric linked to the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP).

The warning comes days after Nigerian troops repelled an attempted assault on March 18, during which about 75 insurgents were reportedly neutralised.

Intelligence sources disclosed that the cleric, who is said to have led Eid-el-Fitr prayers in an area near Sabon Tumbu, used his sermon to caution that the group would strike back over recent military operations in Malam Fatori. He was quoted as suggesting that the town could face severe destruction in a reprisal attack.

Security analysts and sources familiar with insurgent activities have urged caution, noting that such threats have historically been followed by action. They warned that fighters could deploy advanced weaponry and tactics, including coordinated ground offensives and vehicle-borne improvised explosive devices.

Malam Fatori has long been regarded as a strategic military location in the fight against insurgency in the North-East. The town has witnessed repeated clashes, with troops often recording significant victories against ISWAP fighters, earning it a reputation as a difficult area for insurgents to penetrate.

Military personnel, supported by other security agencies, have reportedly strengthened defensive positions in anticipation of any attack.

Surveillance and intelligence-gathering operations have also been intensified, alongside efforts to boost logistics and overall combat readiness.

Sources added that previous encounters have shown insurgents tend to suffer heavy casualties when attempting to overrun well-fortified positions such as Malam Fatori.