Kayode Egbetokun, Inspector-General of Police (IGP), has ordered a massive nationwide deployment of police personnel and operational assets to guarantee a safe, peaceful and crime-free Christmas and New Year celebration across Nigeria.
A statement issued on Monday by Benjamin Hundeyin, the Force Public Relations Officer, noted that the directive, issued as part of the Nigeria Police Force’s proactive festive-season security strategy, mandates all Zonal Assistant Inspectors-General (AIGs) and Commissioners of Police (CPs) in the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory to intensify patrols, boost police visibility and deepen intelligence-led operations throughout the Yuletide period.
Read also: DHQ steps up security nationwide ahead of Christmas, New Year celebrations
According to the police, specialised tactical and operational units have been placed on heightened alert to respond swiftly to any security threats.
“These include the Police Mobile Force, Counter-Terrorism Unit, Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) Command, Intelligence Response Team, Special Tactical Squad, Special Intervention Squad, Highway Patrol units, Marine Police and the Force Airwing.
“The nationwide deployment is focused on securing churches, mosques and other places of worship, recreational centres, markets, parks, event venues, transport terminals, highways, critical national infrastructure and other high-density public locations expected to record increased human and vehicular movement during the festive season.
“In addition, extra patrol teams and surveillance units have been activated along inter-state routes and major expressways to prevent road-related crimes, curb traffic congestion and reduce the risk of accidents. Officers deployed for the assignment have been directed to maintain professionalism, firmness and courtesy in the discharge of their duties”, the statement reads.
The IGP also ordered sustained raids on identified crime-prone areas, including blackspots, forests and suspected criminal hideouts, while directing Commands to strengthen collaboration with other security agencies, community leaders and relevant stakeholders to ensure comprehensive security coverage nationwide.
While wishing Nigerians a joyful Christmas and a prosperous New Year, Egbetokun urged members of the public to remain vigilant, celebrate responsibly and promptly report any suspicious activities to the nearest police station or through designated emergency communication channels.
The Nigeria Police Force reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding lives and property, assuring citizens of its resolve to ensure that the Yuletide season and the period beyond are enjoyed in an atmosphere of peace, safety and security.
