Abeokuta, Nigeria – May 28, 2026

The Ogun State Police Command has deployed more than 2,500 personnel alongside specialized operational assets to ensure tight security and a peaceful celebration of the 2026 Ojude Oba festival in Ijebu-Ode.

Commissioner of Police Bode Ojajuni disclosed this in a statement issued on Thursday through the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Oluseyi Babaseyi.

Ojajuni explained that the massive deployment forms part of proactive measures aimed at guaranteeing public safety and a hitch-free cultural festival. The personnel include conventional officers and tactical teams drawn from the Police Mobile Force (PMF), Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT), Violent Crime Response Unit (VCRU), and other specialized units.

The command has also strategically positioned Armoured Personnel Carriers (APCs), patrol vehicles, police motorcycles, surveillance teams, undercover operatives, and rapid response squads across Ijebu-Ode and adjoining communities. Security will be heavily concentrated at the Ojude Oba pavilion, major highways, entry and exit points, hotels, worship centres, recreational centres, motor parks, markets, residential areas, and other public locations.

The operation focuses on effective crowd control, intelligence-led policing, traffic management, anti-crime patrols, visibility policing, early threat detection, and swift response to any security concerns. All Area Commanders, Divisional Police Officers, and Tactical Commanders have been placed on maximum alert, with directives to sustain aggressive patrols and strategic stop-and-search operations.

Special attention has been given to critical routes such as the Sagamu Interchange, Ijebu Ode-Benin Expressway, Molipa axis, and surrounding communities to prevent criminal activities and traffic disruptions.

While urging officers to maintain professionalism, civility, and respect for the rights of law-abiding citizens, the Commissioner strengthened collaboration with traditional rulers, community leaders, transport unions, event organizers, and other stakeholders to enhance intelligence gathering and ensure seamless coordination.

Ojajuni issued a strong warning to criminal elements and troublemakers to steer clear of the state, emphasizing the command’s readiness to decisively deal with anyone attempting to disrupt public peace. He appealed to residents, visitors, and festival participants to remain law-abiding, vigilant, and security-conscious throughout the period.

The Ojude Oba festival, a major annual cultural event that attracts thousands of visitors to Ijebu-Ode, is scheduled to be held on Friday. The police reaffirm their commitment to proactive policing, public safety, and the protection of lives and property across Ogun State.