The Ogun State Police Command has deployed more than 2,500 officers across Ijebu Ode and surrounding communities in preparation for the 2026 Ojude Oba Festival, assuring both residents and visitors of comprehensive security and a peaceful celebration.
Read more: Ogun State Police Deploy 2,500 Officers to Ijebu Ode Ahead of Ojude Oba FestivalAccording to the Command, this large-scale deployment is part of a proactive plan to ensure public safety, effective crowd control, and uninterrupted festivities throughout the renowned annual cultural event.
In a statement released Thursday, Police Public Relations Officer DSP Oluseyi Babaseyi detailed that the security operation includes regular officers as well as specialized units such as the Police Mobile Force (PMF), SWAT, Violent Crime Response Unit (VCRU), Anti-Kidnapping Unit, Monitoring Unit, Force Intelligence Department, Explosive Ordnance Disposal Unit (EOD-CBRN), Motor Traffic Department (MTD), and other specialized squads.
Officers have been strategically positioned at the Ojude Oba Pavilion, on major highways, at entry and exit points, hotels, places of worship, recreational facilities, motor parks, markets, residential areas, and other hotspots expected to experience heavy vehicular and pedestrian traffic during the festival.
The police have also deployed Armoured Personnel Carriers (APCs), patrol vehicles, motorcycles, surveillance teams, undercover operatives, and rapid response squads to reinforce security throughout the festival period.
The Command emphasized that its operation will be driven by intelligence-led policing, anti-crime patrols, high police visibility, traffic management, early threat detection, and rapid response to any security incident before, during, and after the celebration.
Commissioner of Police, CP Bode Ojajuni, has directed all Area Commanders, Divisional Police Officers, and Tactical Commanders to maintain maximum alertness, intensify patrols, conduct stop-and-search operations, and closely supervise their officers.
Special attention will be given to strategic routes, including Sagamu Interchange, Ijebu Ode–Benin Expressway, Molipa axis, and neighboring communities to prevent crime and ease potential traffic congestion.
The Command also instructed officers to uphold professionalism and respect the rights of law-abiding citizens while carrying out their duties.
Additionally, Area Commanders and Divisional Police Officers have been tasked with strengthening collaboration with traditional rulers, community leaders, transport unions, event organizers, and other stakeholders to boost intelligence gathering and ensure smooth security coordination.
The police warned criminal elements to steer clear of Ogun State during the festivities, stressing their readiness to deal decisively with anyone attempting to disrupt the peaceful atmosphere.
Residents, visitors, and festival participants are urged to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity to the nearest police station or via the Command’s emergency lines.
Commissioner Ojajuni reaffirmed the Command’s commitment to proactive policing and the protection of lives and property throughout Ogun State.
