The Lagos State Police Command has launched a comprehensive security operation across the state to ensure peaceful and secure Eid el-Kabir celebrations for all residents and visitors.
Commissioner of Police Olohundare Jimoh has ordered the immediate deployment of multiple security units including Conventional Police personnel, the Rapid Response Squad, the EKO STRIKE FORCE, and various tactical squads to strategic locations throughout Lagos State. The extensive security arrangement aims to instill confidence in the populace and eliminate fear of crime during the festive period and beyond.
The security deployment encompasses specialized units from across the Nigeria Police Force, including strike forces and tactical squad officers from the Police Mobile Force, Counter-Terrorism Unit, Special Protection Unit, Intelligence Department, Anti-Bomb Squads, and conventional teams. These units have been equipped with armoured personnel carriers and other patrol vehicles to ensure comprehensive coverage across the state.
Special attention is being focused on all Eid praying grounds, mosques, religious facilities, celebration venues, and recreational areas where large gatherings are expected. Anti-crime prevention teams have been specifically deployed to identified criminal hideouts and black spots to proactively deter criminal activities during the celebrations.
In a statement released through the Command’s Public Relations Officer, CSP Benjamin Hundeyin, the Commissioner emphasized that the security measures are designed to protect Muslim faithful and individuals of all faiths participating in the celebrations. “Particular security attention is placed and focused on recreation centres, and other public spaces where large gatherings are anticipated. These spaces are going to be properly policed to ensure effective crowd control, traffic management and ease of access and movement throughout Lagos State,” the statement noted.
The Lagos State Police Command is implementing additional proactive measures aimed at crime prevention and prompt detection of criminal activities across all areas of the state. These strategies are designed to address any security concerns before they escalate and maintain public order before, during, and after the festivities.
The police operation involves coordination with various security and safety agencies operating in Lagos State, including the Military, paramilitary agencies, LASTMA, and other state departments. This collaborative approach ensures comprehensive security coverage and protection for all Lagosians and visitors during the celebrations.
Commissioner Jimoh has mandated all officers and personnel to discharge their duties with utmost professionalism, courtesy, and politeness while ensuring that citizens’ rights are respected. Officers have been instructed to be courteous, polite, and professional but firm in carrying out their official duties throughout the festive period.
The police command is calling on all Lagos residents to be law-abiding, tolerant, and cooperative with police officers in the discharge of their responsibilities. Parents and guardians are particularly urged to encourage their children and wards to adhere to the law and resist any attempts to disrupt public peace during the celebration period.
The Commissioner has warned that the full force of the law will be enforced against any disorderly individuals or groups whose actions may disturb the peace and infringe upon citizens’ rights during the Sallah celebration and beyond. Residents are encouraged to stay alert and report any suspicious activities or individuals to the nearest police station for prompt response.
For emergency situations, the Lagos State Police Command’s control rooms can be reached via 08063299264 and 08065154338. The command has also established channels for reporting police misconduct through the Lagos State Command Complaint Response Unit, accessible via the website http://lagos.npf.gov.ng, WhatsApp at 09111111151, or phone call at 09111111150.
Religious and opinion leaders, along with community elders, are being urged to assist the command in educating their followers to remain peaceful and tolerant, ensuring they are not used to disturb the peace and tranquility currently enjoyed throughout the state.
As celebrations commence across Muslim communities in Lagos State, Commissioner Jimoh, on behalf of all officers and personnel of the command, has joined Muslim faithful in the Sallah celebration, wishing everyone sustainable peace, love, and joy associated with the holy festival and a happy Eid al-Kabir celebration.
