The police command in Ogun says 2,500 operatives and specialised operational assets will provide security during the 2026 Ojude Oba festival in Ijebu-Ode. The police commissioner, Bode Ojajuni, disclosed this in a statement on Thursday.

Mr Ojajuni said the deployment formed part of proactive security measures the command put in place to guarantee public safety and a hitch-free celebration during the annual cultural festival.

According to him, the personnel comprise conventional police officers and tactical teams drawn from the Police Mobile Force, Special Weapons and Tactics, Violent Crime Response Unit, and other specialised units.

Mr Ojajuni added that armoured personnel carriers, patrol vehicles, police motorcycles, surveillance teams, undercover operatives, and rapid response squads had also been strategically deployed across Ijebu-Ode and adjoining communities.

Mr Ojajuni explained that security personnel would be stationed at the Ojude Oba pavilion, major highways, entry and exit points, hotels, worship centres, recreational centres, motor parks, markets, residential areas, and other public locations.

He said the operation aimed to ensure effective crowd control, intelligence-led policing, traffic management, anti-crime patrols, visibility policing, early threat detection, and swift response to security concerns.

The police commissioner noted that all area commanders, divisional police officers, and tactical commanders had been directed to remain on maximum alert and sustain aggressive patrols and strategic stop-and-search operations.

Mr Ojajuni added that special operational attention focused on strategic routes, including the Sagamu Interchange, Ijebu Ode-Benin expressway, Molipa axis, and adjoining communities to prevent criminal activities and traffic obstruction. He directed officers deployed for the operation to maintain professionalism, civility, and respect for the rights of law-abiding citizens while discharging their duties.

Mr Ojajuni said the command strengthened collaboration with traditional rulers, community leaders, transport unions, event organisers, and other stakeholders to enhance intelligence gathering and ensure seamless security coordination throughout the festival period.

The police boss warned criminal elements and troublemakers to stay away from the state, stressing the command’s readiness to deal with anyone attempting to disrupt public peace during the celebration.

Mr Ojajuni appealed to residents, visitors, and festival participants to remain law-abiding, vigilant, and security-conscious throughout the period. He reaffirmed the command’s commitment to proactive policing, public safety, and the protection of lives and property across Ogun. 

(NAN)