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Assure residents, tourists of safety during festival
The Commissioner of Police, Osun State Command, 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 2026 Osun-Osogbo Festival scheduled for Friday.
In a statement issued on Thursday by the Police Public Relations Officer, Abiodun Ojelabi, the CP noted that the command has 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 have been directed to implement comprehensive security measures across Osogbo and other strategic locations, saying, “This is 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.
“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 responses to any security challenges,” Gotan said.
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The command further assured the public that adequate arrangements have been been put in place to manage traffic, regulate crowds, prevent criminal activities and respond swiftly to emergencies. Residents and visitors were urged to remain vigilant and law-abiding throughout the festival.
He advised members of the public to cooperate with security personnel, avoid acts capable of causing public disorder and promptly report suspicious persons, objects or activities to the nearest police formation.
He particularly advised parents and guardians to keep a close watch on their children and wards in crowded areas, while motorists and other road users were urged to comply strictly with traffic regulations and instructions from officers deployed for traffic management.
Issuing a stern warning to criminally minded individuals, including cultists, hoodlums and thieves attempting to exploit the festival for illicit activities, the police declared that the command would 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.
