By our Reporter
The Ogun State Police Command has deployed over 2,500 police personnel and specialised security assets across Ijebu Ode and adjoining communities ahead of the 2026 Ojude Oba Festival.
The Commissioner of Police, Bode Ojajuni, said the deployment was part of proactive measures to ensure a peaceful, secure and hitch-free celebration throughout the festival period.
According to the command, personnel deployed for the operation include conventional police officers and tactical teams drawn from the Police Mobile Force, SWAT, Violent Crime Response Unit, Anti-Kidnapping Unit, Monitoring Unit, Force Intelligence Department, Explosive Ordnance Disposal Unit and the Motor Traffic Department.
The command also deployed Armoured Personnel Carriers, patrol vehicles, motorcycles, surveillance teams, undercover operatives and rapid response squads to strategic locations across the state.
Security operatives have been stationed at the Ojude Oba Pavilion, major highways, hotels, worship centres, motor parks, markets, recreational centres and other public places expected to witness heavy human and vehicular traffic during the celebration.
The police said the operation is aimed at ensuring effective crowd control, intelligence-led policing, visibility patrols, traffic management, early threat detection and swift response to emergencies before, during and after the festival.
Ojajuni directed Area Commanders, Divisional Police Officers and Tactical Commanders to remain on maximum alert and sustain aggressive patrols and strategic stop-and-search operations within their areas of responsibility.
Special security attention, according to the command, has also been focused on major routes including the Sagamu Interchange, Ijebu Ode–Benin Expressway, Molipa axis and adjoining communities to prevent criminal activities and traffic obstruction.
The command further instructed officers deployed for the operation to maintain professionalism, civility and respect for the rights of law-abiding citizens while carrying out their duties.
It also disclosed that police authorities had strengthened collaboration with traditional rulers, transport unions, community leaders and event organisers to improve intelligence gathering and ensure seamless coordination during the festival.
The Ogun State Police Command warned criminal elements and troublemakers to stay away from the state, stressing that security agencies were fully prepared to deal decisively with anyone attempting to disrupt the peaceful atmosphere of the celebration.
Residents, visitors and participants at the festival were urged to remain vigilant and report suspicious movements or activities to the nearest police station or through the command’s emergency lines.
The command reaffirmed its commitment to proactive policing and the protection of lives and property across Ogun State during the annual cultural celebration.
