Gov. Dapo Abiodun of Ogun has appealed to security agencies in the state to deploy workable strategies for adequate security during the Yuletide period.
Abiodun said this on Thursday while receiving the new state Commissioner of Police (CP), Mr Lanre Ogunlowo, who paid him a courtesy visit in his office in Abeokuta.
He commended the security agencies for ensuring peace and tranquillity but noted that unscrupulous people were bound to take advantage of the period to cause security breaches in the state.
“As we approach the Yuletide period, we all know that this period comes with its challenges.
“Those who are bent on carrying out nefarious activities; the get-rich-quick schemes will also get a bit desperate.
“So, I want to admonish you to please develop or design strategies to ensure that this Yuletide period is peaceful for everyone.
“We should be allowed to celebrate and enjoy with our eyes closed and not have to worry about the breakdown of law and order.
“I want to enjoin your colleagues to please join hands with you the way they had cooperated with your predecessor so that together, we can continue to build the future of Ogun State to achieve the future of our dreams,” he said.
Abiodun says the state is unique in terms of geographical location as it shares borders with four states and an international border.
According to him, this has brought about an influx of people to work and attend educational institutions in the state, thereby raising numerous security concerns for the government.
The governor said his administration had, however, reinvigorated the State Security Trust Fund to provide modern equipment and logistics to security agencies.
He noted that this had helped make Ogun one of the most peaceful states in the country.
The governor emphasised the importance of inter-agency synergy, which he said has contributed to the peace being enjoyed in the state.
He pointed out the issue of cultism as prevalent in some parts of the state, urging the new police boss to liaise with his colleagues from other agencies to find a final solution.
Abiodun commended the Inspector-General of Police (I-G) for deploying a highly intelligent and professionally sound officer to the state and equipping him with two Armoured Personnel Carriers (APCs).
He assured that his administration would continue to support the police command and other security agencies to maintain peace and order across the state at all times.
Earlier, the new CP said his presence in the state would add value to what he met on the ground.
Ogunlowo noted that with the support of the state government, cooperation from sister agencies, and the additional APCs, he would work to secure the people and gain their trust.
“I had the privilege of working in the Tactical Intelligence Unit of the Nigeria Police Force in the past, and I have a good understanding of the situation regarding cultism,” he said.
He said the I-G graciously approved logistics, including APCs for Ogun when he was coming.
“They would soon be here.
“I have a good team on the ground. As I said, I will improve on what I met on the ground.
“Before I left yesterday, I had a conversation with our Anti-Cultism Unit, and we have some strategies in place.
“What I can assure you is that we will do all that is needed to address this issue, especially at a time like this.
“We will engage all stakeholders; we know we can’t do it alone, but we’ve got the wherewithal to deal with it,” he said.
Ogunlowo pleaded with the people to support the police and other security agencies in achieving their mandates. (NAN)
