Knowing full well that the month of December is characterized with festivities and a heightened pursuit of financial gains, often leading to increased insecurity, the Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Oyo State Command, has directed all divisional officers in the state to deploy over 2,500 personnel to strategic locations.
This is a reinforcement of the NSCDC’s commitment to ensuring a safe and secure environment for residents and visitors.
A statement signed by the Public Relations Officer (PRO) of the NSCDC, Oyo State Command, Deputy Superintendent of Corps (DSC) Samuel Olubanjo Opebiyi, says the NSCDC, under the leadership of the Oyo State Commandant, Dr. Michael Akintayo Adaralewa, had implemented a series of robust measures to enhance security during the Yuletide period.
2,500 Personnel to Strategic Locations
Opebiyi disclosed that the state commandant had directed all divisional officers in the state to deploy over 2,500 personnel to strategic locations, such as markets, parks, highways, and other public places, to ensure a visible and effective security presence throughout Oyo State. This is in order to safeguard public spaces, maintain peace and order, and attend to emergencies.
He noted that the Oyo State chapter of the NSCDC was intensifying its focus on actionable intelligence-gathering, involving the systematic collection, analysis, and interpretation of relevant information to identify and neutralize potential security risks before they materialize.
“The command recognizes that timely and accurate intelligence is pivotal in formulating effective security strategies and contributing significantly to the overall safety and security of the state,” he added.
The public relations officer stated that the NSCDC, Oyo State Chapter, was placing a heightened focus on the protection of vital assets, such as power facilities, transportation networks, communication networks and other public assets.
“Securing the infrastructure would guarantee the continued functionality of essential services, contributing to a stable and secure environment throughout the festive season,” he posited.
Counter Terrorism Unit
The PRO revealed the NSCDC’s plan to secure the state from any potential terrorist threat during the yuletide season.
“The State Commandant, Dr. Michael Akintayo Adaralewa, has deployed the Counter Terrorism Unit (CTU) to key areas across the state.
“These highly trained personnel are equipped with the necessary skills and expertise to detect and respond effectively to potential terrorist threats.
“The deployment of the Counter Terrorism Unit underscores the commitment to preemptive measures against any form of extremist threats, augmenting the overall security framework of the state during the festive period.” he said.
Fire Outbreak
Opebiyi revealed that with the onset of the dry season, the command had trained and equipped its Disaster Management Unit to respond swiftly and effectively to any fire outbreak or other emergencies.
It would further sensitize the public to fire safety measures and precautions, such as avoiding bush burning, storing flammable materials properly, discouraging the use of fireworks, and having fire extinguishers handy.
He said the campaign to be done utilizing available means, including social media platforms, aims to educate and empower the public to actively participate in maintaining security and promptly report any suspicious activities to the nearest security personnel.
“The NSCDC believes that the collective efforts of the community is essential in achieving a secure environment for all,” he further affirmed.
The PRO stated that in recognition of the importance of collaboration and partnerships in ensuring effective security, the command would work closely with other law enforcement agencies, local communities, and private organizations to pool resources and expertise in achieving its objectives of a safe December.
He charged residents and visitors to remain vigilant, promptly report any suspicious activities to the nearest security personnel, and cooperate fully with security agencies.
“The NSCDC, Oyo State Command, remains dedicated to the overall well-being of the people, and we strive to uphold the highest standards of public safety and security.
“We wish everyone a happy and peaceful December,” he concluded.
