The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps says it has deployed 1,700 operatives to provide security during and after the yuletide celebrations in the state.

The NSCDC commandant in Osun, Igbalawole Sotiyo, disclosed this in a statement on Monday. Mr Sotiyo said that the deployment was done in anticipation of a significant influx of visitors into the state during the festive season.

He said that the deployment is reinforced with intensified visibility patrols, intelligence-led operations, and rapid response teams to promptly address any security threat.

“The NSCDC Osun command has deployed 1,700 personnel to ensure the safety of lives and adequate protection of Critical National Assets and Infrastructure across the state.

“We have emplaced a comprehensive security arrangement aimed at guaranteeing peaceful and hitch-free celebrations.

“The festive period usually records a significant rise in human and vehicular movement, as residents and visitors stream into the state, thereby requiring strengthened security arrangements,” he said.

He said that area commanders and divisional officers have been directed to strategically deploy personnel to places of worship, markets, motor parks, recreational centres, critical infrastructure, and other identified flashpoints across the state.

He directed all personnel to remain vigilant, stressing that the command is working in collaboration with sister security agencies to ensure round-the-clock security during and after the festivities.

He warned miscreants and criminal elements to steer clear of the state during and after the celebrations, as the command would not hesitate to deal decisively with anyone attempting to disrupt public peace and order.

He urged residents to complement security efforts by promptly reporting suspicious movements or activities to the nearest security agency.

(NAN)