Easter: Oyo NSCDC deploys 1,550 personnel

The Commandant of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Oyo State Command, Augustine Padonu, has ordered the deployment of 1,550 personnel to strategic locations across the 33 Local Government Areas of the state to ensure a peaceful and safe celebration of the Easter festivities, taking place from Friday, 18 April to Monday, 21 April.

The Commandant gave the directive during the April edition of the monthly management meeting, held on Wednesday at the Command headquarters in Agodi, Ibadan.

The meeting was attended by the Command’s top brass from all formations in Oyo State.

According to a statement by the Public Relations Officer, SC Samuel Opebiyi, the strategic locations include places of worship, motor parks, recreational centres, major road intersections, event venues, and markets, among other public spaces.

The PRO stated that Commandant Padonu ordered the deployment to ensure the protection of lives and property, the smooth flow of traffic, and the safeguarding of critical national assets and infrastructure.

“As part of the Easter operational plan, a total of 1,550 personnel have been mobilised and deployed.

“These personnel will operate in shifts to maintain round-the-clock visibility, surveillance, and rapid response capability throughout the holiday period.

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“To bolster the Command’s operations during the festive season, specialised units of the Corps, including the Disaster Management Unit, Counter-Terrorism Unit, Intelligence and Surveillance Team, and the Agro-Ranger Unit, have been deployed across the state.

“They are to proactively respond to any emerging threats, emergencies, or criminal activities, particularly in vulnerable rural communities, farming settlements, and high-traffic zones,” Opebiyi quoted the Commandant as saying.

He said Commandant Padonu emphasised the importance of intelligence gathering, visibility policing, and inter-agency collaboration during the festive period.

The NSCDC boss reaffirmed the Command’s commitment to working closely with sister agencies to maintain law and order and to prevent any form of disruption or security breach.

“We are fully prepared to secure Oyo State throughout the Easter celebration. I have given clear instructions to all heads of formations to ensure the maximum deployment of personnel.

“Our men will be on ground and on patrol across the state to ensure that citizens celebrate Easter in peace and safety,” the Commandant further stated.

The Commandant also appealed to the public to remain law-abiding and to cooperate with security agencies by reporting any suspicious activities.

Commandant Padonu extended warm Easter greetings to all Christian faithful in the state and urged them to reflect on the values of peace, love, and sacrifice which the season symbolises.