Police Inspector-General, Mr. Kayode Egbetokun, has ordered the immediate deployment of patrol teams and intensified security operations nationwide ahead of the Eid-el-Kabir celebrations.
He also directed all Zonal Assistant Inspectors-General of Police, Commissioners of Police, and Tactical Commanders to bolster security at Eid prayer grounds, recreational centers, and other public places to forestall any breach of peace during the festive period.
In a statement on Thursday by the Force spokesman, Muyiwa Adejobi, the IG emphasised the importance of maintaining a secure environment for worshippers and all citizens celebrating the festival.
Egbetokun also urged all commanders to ensure visibility patrols, intelligence-led surveillance, and strategic stop-and-search operations are effectively carried out.
“Commissioners of Police, Tactical Commanders, and their supervisory Assistant Inspectors-General of Police have been instructed to strengthen security at Eid prayer grounds, recreational centers, and other public spaces.
“Additionally, officers have been tasked with conducting intelligence-led patrols, surveillance operations, and strategic stop-and-search duties to forestall any security threats during the festive period, ” the statement partly read.
While extending warm felicitations to the Muslim Ummah across the country, IGP Egbetokun encouraged Nigerians to embrace the virtues of tolerance, compassion, and peaceful coexistence, especially in the holy month of Dhul-Hijjah.
He also called on members of the public to be vigilant and report any suspicious activities to the nearest police station or security agency, reiterating that security is a shared responsibility.
Reaffirming the Nigeria Police Force’s commitment to upholding public safety, law, and order during and beyond the festive season, the IG wished all Muslim faithful a joyous and peaceful Eid celebration.
“The IGP acknowledges the spiritual significance of this period, urging all Nigerians to sustain good virtues of tolerance, compassion, and emulating the righteous ways of past prophets as encouraged in Islam which can bolster the promotion of peaceful coexistence and national unity.
“The IGP also wishes all Muslim faithful a joyous and peaceful Eid-al-Adha celebration, encouraging them to use this period to reflect on the values of patience, kindness, and national cohesion as the country continues to strive for peace and progress, ” the statement added.
The Punch
