By Michael Ofulue, Osogbo

The Osun State Police Command has assured residents of adequate security arrangements ahead of this year’s Eid-el-Kabir celebrations.

On its part of proactive measures to ensure a safe and peaceful Eid-el-Kabir celebration, the state Command of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) deployed 1,550 personnel across the state.

Police in the state disclosed this in a statement issued by the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Abiodun Ojelabi, and made available to newsmen on Wednesday.

According to the statement, the Command has put in place proactive security measures to ensure the safety of lives and property across the state before, during, and after the festivities.

“The announcement aims to reassure citizens of the proactive security measures adopted by the Command to safeguard lives and property,” the statement read.

While acknowledging the prevailing peace in the state, the Command urged members of the public to remain security-conscious and law-abiding throughout the festive period.

The Commissioner of Police, CP Mohammed Umar Abba, called on residents to celebrate peacefully and avoid any actions that could disrupt public order. He emphasised that the Police would deal decisively with any individual or group found breaching the law.

Residents are also encouraged to report any suspicious activity or incidents through the following emergency contacts:

Abba also extended warm wishes to all Muslim faithful and visitors to the state, urging them to enjoy a peaceful and joyous Eid-el-Kabir celebration.

Commandant of the NSCDC in Osun, CC Igbalawole Sotiyo, said the deployment is strategic, covering praying grounds, critical national assets and infrastructure, recreational centres, marketplaces, and other public places.

He noted that both overt and covert operatives have been mobilised. While the regular personnel will be visible across public spaces, undercover officers will focus on surveillance and intelligence gathering to prevent security breaches.

“We are aware of the anticipated influx of people into the state. Therefore, adequate security arrangements have been made to protect lives, property, worship centres, and key installations,” Sotiyo stated.

He also directed his officers and men to work in close collaboration with other security agencies in the state to ensure maximum coverage and effective response during the festive period.

The Commandant issued a stern warning to criminal elements to steer clear of Osun State, stating that anyone caught attempting to disrupt the peace will be dealt with according to the law.

Furthermore, he called on members of the public to be security-conscious and report any suspicious movement or individuals to the nearest security agency