The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps has deployed 1,542 operatives across Edo to ensure adequate security during the 2026 Eid-el-Kabir celebration.

The commandant of the corps in Edo, Saidi Akintayo, disclosed this during a news conference on Friday in Benin.

Mr Akintayo said the deployment was in line with the directive of the corps’s commandant general, Ahmed Audi. This, the commandant said this aimed at ensuring a peaceful, safe and hitch-free celebration across the state’s three senatorial districts.

He said the deployed personnel were drawn from the tactical team, counter-terrorism unit, intelligence and investigation department, armed squad, agro rangers, operations department and other specialised units.

“Our personnel have been strategically positioned at Eid prayer grounds, marketplaces, recreational centres, highways, motor parks, worship centres and other vulnerable locations to provide adequate security before, during and after the celebration,” he said.

The commandant said area commanders, divisional officers and heads of formations had been directed to intensify patrols, surveillance and intelligence gathering to prevent any breakdown of law and order during the festive period.

Mr Akintayo warned criminal elements to stay away from Edo, stressing that the command was prepared to deal decisively with anyone threatening public peace.

“We will not tolerate any act capable of threatening the peace and security currently enjoyed in the state,” he said.

He also appealed to residents to remain vigilant and support security agencies with credible information on suspicious movements and activities within their communities.

Mr Akintayo commended Governor Monday Okpebholo of Edo for supporting security agencies in the state, saying the support and encouragement enhanced the command’s operational effectiveness.

The commandant also praised the collaboration among security agencies, describing it as critical to maintaining law and order across Edo.

He urged Muslims to uphold the virtues of sacrifice, peace, tolerance, unity and love associated with Eid-el-Kabir.

The 2026 Eid-el-Kabir celebration will take place on May 27, as declared by Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar III, the Sultan of Sokoto and President-General of the Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs.

(NAN)