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From Lateef Dada, Osogbo
Commissioner of Police, Osun State, Ibrahim Gotan, has assured residents, tourists, worshippers, visitors and other stakeholders of the command’s unwavering commitment to providing adequate security before, during and after the Osun-Osogbo Festival scheduled for today.
In a statement issued yesterday by the Police Public Relations Officer, Abiodun Ojelabi, the commissioner said the command had intensified preparations to ensure a peaceful, orderly and successful celebration of the internationally recognised cultural festival, which attracts visitors from within and outside Nigeria.
He disclosed that Area Commanders, Divisional Police Officers, Tactical Commanders and heads of other operational units had been directed to implement comprehensive security measures across Osogbo and other strategic locations.
According to him, the measures are aimed at safeguarding lives and property while maintaining public order throughout the festive period.
“Security personnel will be strategically deployed to major venues, access routes, worship and tourist sites, markets, motor parks and other identified flashpoints.
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“The command will also work closely with relevant government agencies, traditional institutions, festival organisers, community leaders and other security stakeholders to ensure effective coordination and prompt response to any security challenges,” Gotan said.
The command further assured members of the public that adequate arrangements had been made to manage traffic, regulate crowds, prevent criminal activities and respond swiftly to emergencies. It urged residents and visitors to remain vigilant and law-abiding throughout the festival.
The Commissioner of Police advised members of the public to cooperate with security personnel, refrain from acts capable of causing public disorder and promptly report suspicious persons, objects or activities to the nearest police formation.
He also urged parents and guardians to keep a close watch on their children and wards in crowded areas, while motorists and other road users were advised to comply strictly with traffic regulations and directives issued by officers deployed for traffic management.
The police also issued a stern warning to criminal elements, including cultists, hoodlums and thieves, who might seek to exploit the festival to perpetrate criminal acts.
“The command will not tolerate any disruption to the peace of the state. Appropriate measures have been put in place to identify and deal decisively with criminal elements in accordance with the law,” the statement added.
