The Nigeria Police Force says it has deployed its personnel to churches, recreational centres, highways, and other public spaces to ensure a peaceful Easter celebration.
In separate statements issued by state commands, the police said the nationwide operation was in line with directives from the Inspector-General of Police, Olutunji Rilwan Disu, aimed at safeguarding lives and property during the festive period.
In Oyo State, the Police Command also announced extensive security arrangements, with deployments targeted at critical infrastructure and public gathering points.
The command’s spokesperson, Ayanlade Olayinka, said the Commissioner of Police, Abimbola Ayodeji Olugbenga, had directed intelligence-driven operations to ensure a hitch-free celebration.
The police added that it was collaborating with other security agencies to provide adequate coverage at worship centres, highways, and recreational facilities.
“Accurate and timely information remains the fuel upon which effective policing thrives,” the commissioner said, urging residents to report suspicious activities.
In Rivers State, the Police Command said it had mobilised tactical teams and divisional personnel to strategic locations across the state.
The Police Public Relations Officer, Grace Iringe-Koko, said the Commissioner of Police, Olugbenga Adepoju, had assured residents and visitors of adequate security before, during, and after the celebrations.
“The command has placed adequate security arrangements, including the strategic deployment of personnel to churches, recreational centres, major highways, motor parks, and other vulnerable points,” the statement read.
She urged residents to remain vigilant and cooperate with security agencies by providing credible information for prompt response to threats.
Also in Cross River State, the police said it had activated intelligence-led operations, surveillance patrols, and raids on identified flashpoints to forestall breaches of peace.
The command’s spokesperson, Sunday Eitokpah, who spoke on behalf of the Commissioner of Police, Rashid Afegbua, said comprehensive strategies had been put in place to ensure public safety.
“As part of proactive policing efforts, Area Commanders, Divisional Police Officers and Tactical Commanders have been directed to sustain intelligence-led patrols and surveillance operations,” the statement noted.
Residents were advised to celebrate responsibly and make use of emergency lines where necessary, while the command warned that it would take decisive action against anyone attempting to disrupt public peace.
In Kwara State, the police conducted a joint show of force with multiple security agencies to reassure residents and deter criminal elements.
The Police Public Relations Officer, Adetoun Ejire-Adeyemi, said the operation, led by the Commissioner of Police, Ojo Adekimi, covered key areas across the state.
According to her, the exercise involved collaboration with the Department of State Services, the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, the Federal Road Safety Corps, and the Kwara State Road Traffic Management Agency.
“This operation reflects our proactive strategy and commitment to safeguarding lives and property. It also sends a clear message that Kwara State will not serve as a haven for criminal elements,” she said.
She added that the enhanced security measures would be sustained beyond the Easter period to maintain law and order.
