The Ogun State Police Command has rolled out an extensive security architecture ahead of the 2026 Ojude Oba Festival, deploying more than 2,500 officers and tactical operatives across Ijebu Ode and adjoining communities to guarantee a peaceful celebration.
The security operation, approved by the Commissioner of Police, Bode Ojajuni, is aimed at ensuring public safety, effective crowd control and uninterrupted festivities during one of Ogun State’s most celebrated cultural events.
According to a statement issued by the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Oluseyi Babasẹyi, the deployment covers conventional police officers and specialised tactical squads drawn from the Police Mobile Force, SWAT, Violent Crime Response Unit, Anti Kidnapping Unit, Force Intelligence Department and the Explosive Ordnance Disposal Unit.
The Command also mobilised Armoured Personnel Carriers, patrol vans, police motorcycles, surveillance teams, undercover operatives and rapid response squads positioned across strategic locations expected to witness heavy vehicular and human traffic during the festival.
Security coverage has been extended to the Ojude Oba Pavilion, major highways, hotels, worship centres, recreational centres, motor parks, markets and residential areas within and around Ijebu Ode to forestall criminal activities and maintain public order.
The police said the operation would focus on intelligence driven policing, anti crime patrols, visibility policing, traffic control and swift response to emergencies before, during and after the festival period.
Special operational attention has also been directed at strategic routes including the Sagamu Interchange, Ijebu Ode Benin Expressway and the Molipa axis to prevent traffic gridlock, security breaches and any act capable of disrupting the celebrations.
Ojajuni further directed Area Commanders, Divisional Police Officers and tactical commanders to remain on maximum alert, sustain aggressive patrols and intensify stop and search operations across their jurisdictions throughout the festive period.
The Command stressed that officers deployed for the operation had been instructed to maintain professionalism and respect for the rights of law abiding citizens while collaborating closely with traditional rulers, transport unions, community leaders and festival organisers for seamless coordination.
While warning criminal elements to stay away from Ogun State, the police urged residents and visitors to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities through the Command’s emergency lines, reaffirming its commitment to protecting lives and property during the 2026 Ojude Oba Festival.