Ojude Oba security deployment intensifies as Ogun Police deploy 2,500 officers and tactical units to secure 2026 festival in Ijebu Ode

The Ogun State Police Command on Thursday, May 28, 2026, deployed more than 2,500 officers across tactical and specialised units to ensure tight security for the 2026 Ojude Oba Festival holding today in Ijebu Ode, in what authorities described as a comprehensive Ojude Oba security deployment aimed at safeguarding lives, property and cultural activities.

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The deployment was confirmed in a statement issued by the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Oluseyi Babaseyi, who said the operation covers key locations across Ijebu Ode and adjoining communities expected to experience heavy human and vehicular traffic during the annual celebration.

According to the command, the Ojude Oba security deployment includes personnel drawn from the Police Mobile Force, SWAT, the Violent Crime Response Unit, Anti-Kidnapping Unit, Monitoring Unit and the Force Intelligence Department, among other specialised formations.

The police also deployed Armoured Personnel Carriers, patrol vans, motorcycles, surveillance teams, undercover operatives and rapid response squads strategically positioned across major entry points, highways, public spaces, worship centres, hotels, markets and the Ojude Oba Pavilion.

The command said the enhanced security presence is intended to support effective crowd control, intelligence-led policing, traffic management, visibility operations and rapid response to any emerging threats before, during and after the festival.

Commissioner of Police Bode Ojajuni directed all area commanders and divisional police officers to remain on maximum alert and sustain aggressive patrols and stop-and-search operations across strategic routes.

Key corridors under heightened surveillance include the Sagamu Interchange, Ijebu Ode–Benin Expressway and the Molipa axis, which the command identified as sensitive routes requiring strict monitoring to prevent criminal activity or disruption of public peace.

The Ojude Oba security deployment also places emphasis on inter-agency and community collaboration, with officers instructed to work closely with traditional rulers, transport unions, event organisers and local stakeholders to strengthen intelligence gathering and coordination.

Authorities urged officers involved in the operation to maintain professionalism, civility and respect for human rights while carrying out their duties, stressing the importance of balancing security enforcement with public order.

The police further warned criminal elements to stay away from the state, insisting that adequate arrangements had been made to respond decisively to any attempt to disrupt the peaceful conduct of the festival.

Residents and visitors were advised to remain law-abiding, vigilant and security conscious, while parents were encouraged to monitor the movements of children and wards throughout the festivities.

The command also urged the public to report suspicious activities promptly to the nearest police formation or through designated emergency lines to support ongoing security efforts.

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This year’s Ojude Oba Festival is particularly significant as it is the first edition to be held following the passing of the Awujale of Ijebuland, Oba Sikiru Adetona, on July 13, 2025, with the community still awaiting the emergence of a new traditional ruler.