The Ogun State Police Command has announced heightened security operations across the state ahead of the 2026 Eid-el-Kabir celebrations, promising residents a peaceful and safe festive period.

In a statement issued on Monday, the Commissioner of Police, Bode Ojajuni, said officers and operational assets had been deployed to key locations, including Eid prayer grounds, highways, markets, recreational centres, motor parks and residential areas.

Police authorities said the move is aimed at improving visible policing, strengthening crowd control and ensuring rapid responses to potential security threats before, during and after the Muslim festival.

Why the security deployment matters

Eid-el-Kabir, one of the most significant festivals in Islam, typically attracts large gatherings across prayer grounds, roads and public venues in Nigeria.

Security experts say festive periods often require increased surveillance because of higher traffic volumes, crowded public spaces and the potential for criminal activity.

The Ogun State Police Command said tactical units, divisional police officers and area commanders had been placed on high alert as part of the operation.

According to the statement, police officers have also been directed to intensify patrols and carry out stop-and-search operations where necessary.

“The deployment is aimed at ensuring visible policing, effective crowd control, early threat detection, and swift response to any emerging security concerns,” the statement said.

Collaboration with communities

Police authorities said they would work closely with community leaders, transport unions and local stakeholders to improve intelligence gathering and prevent any breakdown of law and order.

Residents were also urged to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities to nearby police stations or through the command’s emergency lines.

The command appealed to parents and guardians to monitor the activities of children and young people during the celebrations.

Officials also warned against thuggery, cult-related violence, reckless driving and other forms of disorderly behaviour.

Public reaction and wider concerns

Security analysts say proactive deployments during major religious celebrations have become increasingly important across Nigeria amid concerns over highway crimes, cult clashes and public disturbances in some urban centres.

Many residents travelling during Eid are expected to use major routes connecting Abeokuta, Lagos and neighbouring states, increasing pressure on law enforcement agencies to maintain order and traffic control.

Community groups in Ogun State have repeatedly called for stronger police visibility during festive periods, especially around transport hubs and crowded markets.

Police emergency contacts released

The command encouraged residents to use its emergency communication channels in cases requiring urgent attention.

Emergency contacts released by the police include:

Gateway Shield (Toll-Free): 0800 000 9111

0906 283 7609

0912 014 1706

0915 102 7369

0708 497 2994

What’s next?

Security operations are expected to continue throughout the Eid-el-Kabir celebrations, with officers maintaining surveillance in strategic areas across Ogun State.

Authorities say additional tactical responses may be activated if intelligence reports indicate emerging threats during the holiday period.

The Lagos State Police Command has inaugurated a special tactical security outfit known as the “Command Sweepers Squad” in response to growing concerns over insecurity in parts of Ikorodu and nearby communities.

The initiative, announced on Sunday, comes amid complaints from residents about rising incidents of robbery, violent attacks, and criminal activities across the Ikorodu axis.

According to the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Abimbola Adebisi, the operation was approved under the leadership of Commissioner of Police Tijani Fatai as a temporary intervention strategy designed to restore public confidence and strengthen security presence in the area.

The newly formed squad has been stationed in Ijede, a location police say will allow rapid deployment across Ikorodu and adjoining communities.

Why the New Security Operation Matters

Ikorodu, one of Lagos State’s fastest-growing urban corridors, has experienced increasing security concerns in recent months, with residents frequently raising alarms over attacks by criminal gangs and isolated cases of violent crime.

Security analysts say the creation of specialised intervention squads reflects growing pressure on law enforcement agencies to respond more quickly to community-based threats in densely populated areas.

The “Command Sweepers Squad” combines officers from several tactical formations, including the Rapid Response Squad (RRS), Eko Strike Force, Police Mobile Force units, and other security agencies.

Members of the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF) are also participating in the operation.

Police authorities said the multi-agency structure is intended to improve intelligence gathering, rapid response, and coordinated patrol operations.

Armoured Vehicles and Patrol Teams Deployed

To strengthen the operation, the squad has been equipped with patrol vehicles and three Armoured Personnel Carriers recently provided by the Lagos State Security Trust Fund.

Police said officers have already been deployed to identified “black spots” and criminal hideouts within Ikorodu and surrounding communities.

The operations are expected to include:

Intelligence-led raids

Stop-and-search operations

Confidence-building patrols

Surveillance of suspected criminal hotspots

Authorities say the goal is to “flush out criminal elements” while improving residents’ sense of safety.

“The operation will be conducted professionally and in line with the rule of law,” the police command stated.

Residents Seek Lasting Security Solutions

Some residents and community leaders have welcomed the deployment but say sustained policing and community engagement will determine whether the initiative succeeds long term.

Security observers note that tactical deployments often bring immediate relief but require consistent intelligence-sharing and public cooperation to remain effective.

The police command urged residents to stay vigilant and report suspicious activities through its emergency lines, including:

07061019374

08065154338

08063299264

08039344870

09168630929

Industry and Public Perspective

Urban security experts say Lagos authorities are increasingly relying on coordinated tactical responses as population growth and economic pressures create new policing challenges.

Community policing advocates, however, stress that trust between residents and security agencies will remain critical.

They say transparent operations, respect for human rights, and rapid response to distress calls will shape public perception of the new squad.

What Happens Next?

The Lagos State Police Command says the “Command Sweepers Squad” is currently a temporary intervention force, but its future may depend on operational results and evolving security conditions in Ikorodu.

Residents are expected to witness increased patrol visibility and security checks across strategic roads and communities in the coming weeks.

The Ogun State Community, Social Orientation and Safety Corps, popularly known as the So-Safe Corps, has assured residents of heightened security measures ahead of the Eid al-Adha celebrations in Ogun State.

The reassurance came in a statement issued by the State Commander, Soji Ganzallo, and signed by the Corps’ Director of Information and Public Relations, Adegunwa Adegbuyi.

The Corps said both uniformed and undercover operatives had been stationed across strategic locations and identified “black spots” to prevent criminal activity during the festive period.

Why It Matters

Eid al-Adha is one of the busiest festive periods in Nigeria, with increased travel, crowded public spaces, religious gatherings, and commercial activity.

Security agencies often increase surveillance during the celebrations due to concerns over theft, traffic accidents, and public safety risks associated with large crowds.

For many residents and travellers, the assurance from the So-Safe Corps is expected to boost public confidence during the holiday.

So-Safe Corps Issues Safety Advisory

Speaking in the statement, Dr Ganzallo urged residents — especially Muslim faithful — to celebrate responsibly and remain security conscious throughout the festivities.

“People should be alert, observant and careful in crowded areas as some individuals in the crowd have ulterior motives,” he said.

He also advised residents travelling during the holiday to ensure their homes are securely locked before leaving and encouraged neighbours to maintain peaceful relationships, describing neighbours as “the first responders in times of assistance.”

The Corps further appealed to motorists to adopt defensive driving practices during the holiday period.

According to the statement, drivers were advised to avoid speeding, overloading, and late-night travel while ensuring that their vehicles are roadworthy before embarking on journeys.

Security Presence Across Ogun State

The So-Safe Corps said operatives had already been mobilised to major public areas across the state to prevent security breaches.

“Both uniform and plain-clothes operatives are on strict instruction to ensure hitch-free celebration,” Ganzallo stated.

The agency did not specify the exact number of officers deployed but said surveillance operations would continue throughout the festive period.

Public Safety and Festive Travel Concerns

Road safety experts and security analysts have repeatedly warned about the risks associated with festive travel in Nigeria, particularly during major religious holidays when highways experience increased traffic volume.

Public concern over road accidents, petty theft, and crowd-related incidents often rises during Eid celebrations, especially in densely populated urban centres.

Security observers say visible deployments by local security agencies can help deter criminal activity and improve emergency response times.

What’s Next?

The Eid al-Adha celebrations are expected to attract large gatherings across mosques, markets, motor parks, and recreational centres in Ogun State and other parts of Nigeria.

Residents are expected to continue preparations for travel, religious observances, and family celebrations in the coming days.

The So-Safe Corps says its officers will remain on active patrol throughout the holiday period.