The police command in Oyo says it has deployed 5,296 officers in the state to ensure a hitch-free Easter celebration.

The police have also begun a stop-and-search operation at various borders of the state.

Oyo has recently been a hotbed of violence, largely due to the tension between Fulani herders and the indigenes. The recent clashes between the OPC and an alleged Fulani warlord, Wakili Abdullahi Wakili.

The command’s Public Relations Officer, CSP Olugbenga Fadeyi, disclosed this in a statement on Tuesday in Ibadan.

Mr Fadeyi explained that the police intensified stop-and-search operation at entry and exit points and effective visibility patrol across the state.

He noted that the command would embark on an intelligence-led raid of black spots, adding that the police would adequately protect places of worship, recreation centres, financial institutions, and other public facilities.

Mr Fadeyi urged the residents to cooperate with the police by providing credible information and charged police officers to be courteous and civil to the residents while discharging their duties.

“In case of any distress, citizens are advised to call the Police Control Room numbers 08081768614, 07055495413, and 615 (toll-free) of the Oyo State Security Trust Fund.

“The Commissioner of Police, Oyo state command, CP Ngozi Onadeko, wishes the Christian community a very blessed holy week and happy Easter in commemoration of death and resurrection of Jesus Christ.

“The CP enjoins all Christian faithful to ensure that COVID-19 protocols are adhered to in various places of worship,” he said. 

(NAN)