By John Dike, Osogbo
In compliance with a nationwide directive by the new Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Disu, instructing Commissioners of Police in the 36 states to tighten the nation’s security architecture, Osun State Commissioner of Police, Ibrahim Gotan, has ordered a massive deployment of personnel to border communities and other identified flashpoints across the state.
The large-scale operation, which commenced on Tuesday, is part of proactive measures aimed at strengthening internal security, preventing criminal infiltration, and ensuring residents continue their lawful activities without fear or intimidation.
Findings reveal that the deployment cuts across key operational units of the command, including special tactical squads, operatives of the State Intelligence Bureau (SIB), and detectives from the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCIID).
Officers have been strategically positioned in border towns, flashpoints, and other porous locations considered susceptible to criminal activities, particularly areas sharing boundaries with neighbouring states.
Speaking with our correspondent in an interview on Tuesday on the command’s compliance with the IGP’s directive, CP Gotan disclosed that the measures were deliberately designed to forestall possible security threats and maintain the peace currently enjoyed in Osun State.
He explained that operatives have been mandated to intensify stop-and-search operations where necessary, sustain high-visibility patrols, conduct round-the-clock surveillance in identified hotspots, and strengthen intelligence-gathering mechanisms to detect and neutralise potential threats before they escalate.
“The Inspector-General of Police has directed all Commissioners of Police to beef up security across their respective states. In compliance with that directive, we have mobilised adequate manpower and logistics to reinforce security in border towns and other critical areas of Osun State,” Gotan stated.
The police boss further revealed that all Area Commanders and Divisional Police Officers (DPOs) have been instructed to personally supervise officers deployed to strategic locations to ensure strict professionalism, discipline, and adherence to operational guidelines.
According to him, the command has equally provided necessary logistics support, including patrol vehicles, communication gadgets, and other operational tools required for seamless coordination and rapid response.
He reassured residents that the heightened security presence is purely preventive and should not be misconstrued as a sign of imminent danger.
“The deployment is proactive and intelligence-driven. It is not a cause for alarm but a deliberate step to sustain law and order,” he added.
While warning criminal elements to steer clear of Osun State or be prepared to face the full weight of the law, CP Gotan appealed to residents to collaborate with security agencies by providing timely and credible information.
“Effective crime prevention, detection, and control is a collective responsibility. We urge law-abiding citizens to remain security conscious and report suspicious movements or activities to the nearest police formation. Together, we can sustain the peace and stability currently enjoyed in our state,” he said.
The renewed security push follows concerns over rising global tensions and the need to prevent any possible spillover effects that could threaten public order within the country.
Observers believe the directive by IGP Disu and its swift implementation in Osun will further consolidate public confidence in the Nigeria Police Force and reinforce ongoing efforts to maintain law and order across the state and also guarantee the safety of and sundry.
