Easter: Ondo govt, NSCDC deploys security operatives, assure residents of safety
The Ondo state government has reassured residents of adequate security arrangements across the 18 Local Government Areas state ahead of the Easter celebrations, stressing that the protection of lives and
- From Tosin Tope, Akure
The Ondo state government has reassured residents of adequate security arrangements across the 18 Local Government Areas state ahead of the Easter celebrations, stressing that the protection of lives and property remains its top priority.
In a statement issued on Thursday by the Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Hon. Idowu Ajanaku congratulated the Christian faithfuls for witnessing another Easter season.
It explained that the state government led by Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa has given assurances that comprehensive security measures put in place to ensure a peaceful and hitch-free Easter celebration.
The government disclosed that security agencies have been strategically deployed across the state, backed by enhanced surveillance and intelligence gathering to prevent any breakdown of law and order.
It urged residents to remain vigilant and report any suspicious movement to relevant security agencies, noting that community cooperation is key to sustaining peace.
Thr government also called on citizens to continue to pray for the unity, peace and progress of the state and the country, as well as support the administration of Bola Ahmed Tinubu in delivering on the Renewed Hope Agenda.
Reaffirming its commitment, the government assured that no effort would be spared in maintaining security before, during and after the festive period.
"The government strongly advised residents to remain vigilant and security-conscious at all times, and to promptly report any suspicious movement or activity to relevant security agencies. The government stressed that community cooperation remains vital in sustaining the prevailing peace and security across the state.
"Furthermore, the government called on the good people of Ondo State to continue to pray for the peace, unity, and progress of the state and Nigeria at large. It specifically encouraged citizens to support and pray for the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, as he advances the Renewed Hope Agenda towards national development and prosperity.
"The Ondo State Government reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to protecting the lives and property of all residents, assuring that no effort will be spared in maintaining law and order before, during, and after the Easter celebrations," it added.
Meanwhile, the Ondo State Command of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps has deployed 1,200 personnel across the state to beef up security for the celebrations.
The State Commandant, Oluyemi Ibiloye, who disclosed this in an operational order issued on April 1, 2026, said the deployment covers critical areas such as markets, motor parks, recreational centres, worship centres, and other key government assets.
According to him, specialised units including Agro Rangers, Armed Squad, Female Strike Force, Rapid Tactical Squad, Anti-Vandalism Squad, Chemical, Biological, Radiological, Nuclear and Explosives (CBRNE) Unit, Counter-Terrorism Unit and Disaster Management Unit have been mobilised to strategic locations across the state.
He added that area commanders and divisional officers have been directed to intensify surveillance and visibility patrols, while collaborating with other security agencies for effective intelligence gathering and sharing.
According to him, operational equipment such as body armour, helmets, raincoats, reflective jackets and other kits have also been distributed to personnel to enhance efficiency.
"Tactical and specialized units, including the Agro Rangers Team, Armed Squad, Female Strike Force, Rapid Tactical Squad, Anti-Vandalism Squad, Chemical Biological Radiological Nuclear Explosives (CBRNE) Unit, Counter-Terrorism Unit, and Disaster Management Unit, are to be deployed to public spaces and strategic areas prone to criminal activities.
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"The deployment of specialised tactical units and intelligence operatives, is aimed at strengthening security and ensuring a peaceful festive period within the state.
"In line with the Commandant directive, Area Commanders and Divisional officers are to intensify surveillance and visibility patrol across flashpoints in their area of responsibilities by synergising with sister agencies in information gathering and sharing.
"For effective operations, operational kits ranging from body ammo, helmets, rain coat, reflective jackets, kneel guard, and other items were distributed to personnel," he said.
Ibiloye urged officers and men of the corps to remain professional, vigilant and respectful of citizens’ fundamental rights, while adhering strictly to standard operating procedures and rules of engagement.
He also felicitated with Christian faithful, urging them to embrace love, peaceful coexistence and remain law-abiding during and after the Easter celebrations.
