By Niran Odufayo
The Lagos State Police Command has rolled out extensive security arrangements to ensure a peaceful and hitch-free Eid el-Kabir celebration across the state. This was disclosed in a statement issued by the Police Public Relations Officer, CSP Benjamin Hundeyin, on behalf of the Commissioner of Police, CP Olohundare Jimoh.
According to the statement, the Command has deployed a heavy presence of security personnel drawn from the Police Mobile Force, Rapid Response Squad (RRS), EKO Strike Force, Counter-Terrorism Unit, Special Protection Unit, Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD), Tactical Squads, K9 Unit, Mounted Troops, and other operational units. These teams have been strategically positioned across the state to provide round-the-clock protection of lives and property throughout the Sallah period.
The Commissioner of Police has directed that all Eid prayer grounds, mosques, recreational centres, and venues where large gatherings are expected will receive focused security coverage. Special anti-crime teams have also been deployed to black spots, criminal hideouts, and identified flashpoints to forestall any attempt to disrupt public order. Mobile patrols, armoured personnel carriers, and crowd control resources have been mobilised to aid traffic flow and ensure free movement of residents and visitors.
In the statement, CP Jimoh emphasized the Command’s commitment to maintaining public order before, during, and after the festivities. He stated that the police would operate in synergy with other security and safety agencies in the state, including the military, paramilitary organisations, the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA), and other relevant bodies, to strengthen internal security and ensure public safety.
Officers involved in the exercise have been instructed to carry out their duties with the highest level of professionalism, respect for citizens’ rights, and courtesy. The police chief urged Lagosians to cooperate with law enforcement officers and remain law-abiding throughout the holiday period.
Parents and guardians were advised to caution their children and wards against any form of misconduct or attempts to breach the peace. CP Jimoh warned that anyone found disturbing the peace or engaging in criminal activities would face the full weight of the law.
The Command also called on community leaders, religious figures, and opinion leaders to support the police by educating their followers on the importance of peace and tolerance during the season.
Members of the public are encouraged to report suspicious activities or emergencies to the nearest police station or through the Command’s emergency lines: 08063299264 and 08065154338. Complaints of police misconduct can also be submitted via the Lagos State Command’s Complaint Response Unit through the website lagos.npf.gov.ng, WhatsApp at 09111111151, or phone call at 09111111150.
Concluding the statement, the Commissioner of Police extended warm Eid greetings to the Muslim faithful in Lagos and wished all residents a joyful, safe, and peaceful Eid el-Kabir celebration.