Police deployed officers to churches and parks to ensure a peaceful Easter

The Nigerian Police said they had deployed personnel to churches, recreation centers, roads and other public spaces to ensure peaceful Easter celebrations.

In a separate statement issued by the state command, the police said the nationwide operation was in line with the directives of the Inspector General of Police, Olutunji Rilwan Disu, aimed at saving lives and property during the festive period.

In Oyo State, the Police Command also announced extensive security arrangements, with targeted deployment at critical infrastructure and community gathering places.

Spokesman of the command, Ayanlade Olayinka, said the Commissioner of Police, Abimbola Ayodeji Olugbenga, had directed intelligence-based operations to ensure the celebrations were hitch-free.

The police added that it was working with other security agencies to provide adequate coverage at worship centers, roads and recreational facilities.

“Accurate and timely information remains the fuel for the growth of effective policing,” the commissioner said, urging citizens to report suspicious activity.

In Rivers State, the Police Command said it had deployed tactical teams and divisional personnel to strategic locations across the state.

Head of Public Relations of the National Police, Grace Iringe-Koko, said that Police Commissioner Olugbenga Adepoju had provided adequate security guarantees to residents and visitors before, during and after the celebrations.

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“The command has put in place adequate security arrangements, including strategic deployment of personnel to churches, recreation centers, major highways, car parks and other vulnerable points,” the statement said.

He urged citizens to remain vigilant and cooperate with security agencies by providing credible information for quick response to threats.

Also in Cross River State, police said they had activated intelligence-led operations, surveillance patrols and raids at identified conflict points to prevent breach of peace.

Spokesperson for the command, Sunday Eitokpah, who spoke on behalf of the Commissioner of Police, Rashid Afegbua, said a comprehensive strategy had been implemented to ensure the safety of the public.

“As part of proactive policing efforts, Area Commanders, Divisional Police Officers and Tactical Commanders have been directed to maintain intelligence-led patrol and surveillance operations,” the statement said.

Citizens were advised to celebrate responsibly and use emergency routes if necessary, while the command warned that they would take strict action against anyone who tries to disturb public peace.

In Kwara State, the police staged a show of force together with various security agencies to reassure residents and deter criminal elements.

The Police Public Relations Officer, Adetoun Ejire-Adeyemi, said the operation led by Police Commissioner Ojo Adekimi covered key areas across the state.

According to him, the exercise involved collaboration with the Department of State Services, Nigerian Security and Civil Defense Corps, Federal Road Safety Corps and Kwara State Road Traffic Management Agency.

“This operation reflects our proactive strategy and commitment to protect lives and property. It also sends a clear message that Kwara State will not become a haven for criminal elements,” he said.

He added that enhanced security measures would be maintained beyond the Easter period to maintain law and order.