The Oyo State Command of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, on Saturday, said it had deployed over 2,500 personnel to markets, parks, highways, and other public places to ensure effective visibility and patrol.

A statement by the state Public Relations Officer,  Samuel Opebiyi, said the deployment was to reinforce the command’s commitment to ensuring a safe and secure environment for residents and visitors in the state.

The statement said the aim of the state commandant, Michael Adaralewa, is to tackle insecurity, which is usually synonymous with the end-of-year festivities, and heightened pursuit of financial gains, leading to enhanced security across the state.

He said, “The state commandant has directed all divisional officers in the state to deploy their personnel to strategic locations, ensuring a visible and effective security presence throughout in the state. Over 2,500 personnel will be deployed to places such as markets, parks, highways, and other public places, to ensure effective visibility and patrol. The command is taking this proactive action to safeguard public spaces, maintain peace and order, and attend to emergencies.

“The state command recognises that timely and accurate intelligence is pivotal in formulating effective security strategies. By staying proactive in intelligence gathering, the command aims to identify and address potential threats, contributing significantly to the overall safety and security of the state during the festive season. 

“Key infrastructural facilities such as power, transportation networks, communication networks and other public assets will receive increased security measures. By securing these facilities, the command seeks to guarantee the continued functionality of essential services, contributing to a stable and secure environment throughout the festive season. He stated.

To effectively carry out the task, the PRO said that the trained personnel had been equipped with the necessary skills and expertise to detect and respond effectively to potential terrorist threats.

In addition, with the onset of the dry season, the state command said that it would also focus on disaster management initiatives, particularly fire accidents, adding that the command’s Disaster Management Unit had been trained and equipped to respond swiftly and effectively to any fire outbreaks or other emergencies.

To ensure fire safety measures and precautions, the command advised residents to avoid bush burning, store flammable materials properly, discourage the use of fireworks, and have handy fire extinguishers.

It, therefore, promised to work in synergy with other law enforcement agencies, local communities, and private organisations to pool resources and expertise in achieving its objectives of a safe December.