The Lagos State Police Command has announced the deployment of a large number of police personnel and tactical units across the state to ensure a safe, peaceful, and crime-free Easter celebration.
In a statement signed by the spokesperson for the state command, Benjamin Hundeyin, on Friday, the Commissioner of Police, Olohundare Jimoh, directed the immediate deployment of conventional police officers, elite strike forces, and tactical units, including the Police Mobile Force, Rapid Response Squad, Counter-Terrorism Unit, Special Protection Unit, Explosive Ordnance Disposal squad, K9 units, mounted troops, and other operational detachments, to key locations in Lagos.
“All strategic locations across the length and breadth of Lagos State including the identified black spots and flash points” are being manned, the police said, to “prevent crime and criminality, remove fear of crimes from the mind of all Lagosians and visitors alike, and ensure hitch-free Easter celebrations this year and beyond.”
Special attention is being given to churches, celebration venues, recreational centres, and other public spaces where large gatherings are expected.
These areas “are going to be properly policed,” the statement added.
The police command also revealed that officers are being supported with logistics, including armoured personnel carriers and patrol vehicles.
The command said the initiative is part of a broader effort to “nip in the bud any other security breaches that may arise,” and to maintain public order before, during, and after the festivities.
Jimoh emphasised that the police will work in close synergy with other security agencies in the state, including the military, paramilitary, and Lagos State Traffic Management Authority, to ensure safety for residents and visitors.
To that effect, he instructed officers to be “courteous, polite, professional but firm” in discharging their duties, and to ensure that the rights of all citizens are respected.
The commissioner also called on Lagosians to cooperate with the police and remain vigilant.
“Report any suspicious activities or individuals to the nearest police station for immediate response and actions,” he urged.
The command also urged residents to report any incidents of police misconduct to the Lagos State Command Complaint Response Unit.
Jimoh further appealed to parents and guardians to caution their children and wards against any disruptive behaviour during the holiday.
As he extended Easter greetings, the Commissioner said, “On behalf of the entire Officers and other personnel of the Command, we gladly join all the Christian faithful in the State in the celebration and fervently wish them sustainable peace, love and joy associated with the Holy ceremony and Happy Easter.”(With Agency Additional Report)
