Yuletide: Police Intensify Security Operations Across Ogun, Delta and Imo States
The Nigeria Police Force has rolled out extensive security measures across Ogun, Delta and Imo states as part of efforts to ensure a peaceful and hitch-free Christmas and New Year celebration.
In Ogun State, the Police Command has commenced coordinated joint operations with other security agencies to strengthen security across the state throughout the festive period. Agencies involved in the operation include the military, Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Amotekun Corps, Ogun State Community, Social Orientation and Safety Corps (SO-SAFE), and the Vigilante Group of Nigeria (VGN), among others.
According to the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Oluseyi Babaseyi, a large number of security personnel have been deployed to boost patrols and enhance security along major highways and strategic locations. He specifically mentioned the Lagos–Ibadan Expressway and the Sagamu–Ijebu-Ode road as key focus areas due to their importance for the movement of people and goods during the yuletide.
Babaseyi assured residents of adequate security, noting that the joint operations include the deployment of patrol vehicles, tactical units and intelligence assets to deter and prevent criminal activities before, during and after the celebrations. He added that the Commissioner of Police, CP Lanre Ogunlowo, has also ordered the massive deployment of officers for traffic control and operational duties to ensure effective coverage and swift response to emergencies.
The Ogun State Police Command reiterated its ban on the use of fireworks and knock-out bangers, citing public safety concerns, and urged residents to celebrate responsibly while cooperating with security personnel.
Meanwhile, the Delta State Police Command has announced a statewide security operation ahead of the festive season, assuring residents of a safe and peaceful Christmas and New Year. The Command’s spokesperson, Bright Edafe, disclosed that the Commissioner of Police, CP Olufemi Abaniwonda, ordered the massive deployment of personnel before, during and after the celebrations to protect lives, property and public gatherings.
Area Commanders, Divisional Police Officers (DPOs) and Tactical Commanders have been directed to deploy officers to major celebration venues, recreational centres and identified flashpoints across the state. Special patrol teams drawn from Dragon Patrol, Safer Highways, Quick Response Squad, Rapid Response Squad, CP-SAT and Eagle-Net units have been stationed along major routes, including the Asaba–Onitsha Head Bridge, Anwai Campus Gate to Illah axis, Onicha Ugbo–Idumuje–Ugboko corridor, PTI and DSC roundabouts, as well as highways linking Asaba, Agbor, Abraka, Eku, Kwale, Ughelli and Sapele.
Within Asaba metropolis, heavy security presence has been established in areas prone to traffic congestion and street crime, such as Summit Junction, Inter-Bau Roundabout, Federal Medical Centre Roundabout, Ogbe Ogonogo Market, Government House Gate, Airport Junction and key intersections along Nnebisi Road.
Traffic control has also been prioritised, particularly around the Asaba–Onitsha Head Bridge and the busy DSC and Effurun roundabouts. Police officers and traffic wardens have been assigned exclusively to manage traffic, while DPOs of ‘B’ and ‘C’ Divisions in Asaba, alongside the State Traffic Officer, are coordinating efforts with other security agencies to ensure free flow of movement.
In Warri, Effurun and neighbouring communities, divisions such as Ekpan and Ebrumede have been directed to intensify patrols. The Marine Police have also been deployed to waterways in Escravos, Burutu and Warri to curb sea piracy, illegal bunkering and attacks on traders and travellers. The Command further announced the commencement of a continuous “Operation Show of Force” across the state from Sunday, December 21, 2025, under the supervision of the Deputy Commissioner of Police in charge of Operations.
Similarly, the Imo State Police Command, in collaboration with sister security agencies, has put in place comprehensive security arrangements across the state’s 27 local government areas. This was disclosed in a statement issued by the command’s spokesperson, Henry Okoye.
According to the statement, the Commissioner of Police, CP Aboki Danjuma, has established a watertight security architecture across Imo State to guarantee the safety of residents, visitors and travellers during the festive season and beyond. Area Commanders and DPOs have been directed to fully activate their security mechanisms to prevent any form of security breach.
While wishing residents a merry Christmas and peaceful celebrations, the Imo State Police Command urged the public to remain vigilant, law-abiding and security-conscious, advising them to promptly report any suspicious activity through the emergency line: 0803 477 3600.
