As the nation joined other countries of the world to mark Good Friday and begin the Easter festivities, security agencies on Friday beefed up security in different parts of the country to forestall unsavoury incidents.
The Nigeria Police Force, the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, the military, Department of State Service, and the Federal Road Safety Corps heightened security surveillance nationwide and deployed key personnel in strategic locations, including worship centres, shopping malls, amusement parks and recreational centres.
The DSS urged Nigerians to remain vigilant throughout the Easter period and advised them to report attempts by criminals to perpetrate crimes during the celebration.
The Director of Public Relations and Strategic Communications, DSS, Peter Afunanya, disclosed this in a statement on Friday.
The statement read, “Consequent upon these, everyone is urged to be vigilant and report attempts to breach security to relevant law enforcement agencies. The DSS website www.dss.gov.ng; email address- dsspr@dss.gov.ng and telephone lines +234915 339 1309; +234 908 837 3514 remain relevant for public guidance.”
Afunanya advised Christians in the country to stay away from illicit drugs, and excessive intake of alcohol, among others.
“Similarly, celebrants are advised to refrain from such behaviours as illicit drugs, and excessive alcoholism as well as reject all forms of bigotry and other social vices during the ceremony. They are, therefore, implored to renew their commitment to the peace, and unity of Nigeria and work towards her inclusiveness he stated.
He urged Christians to learn from Jesus Christ and apply his attitude in their daily affairs.
Afunanya said, “The Director-General, management and staff of the Department of State Services wish to felicitate the Christian faithful on the celebration of Easter. It also uses this opportunity to call on Nigerians to draw lessons from the forbearance and humility of Jesus Christ and apply the same in their daily affairs.
“The Service reminds them to use the event which illustrates sacrifice and forgiveness to refocus their love for one another, the nation and humanity at large. On this note, citizens are encouraged to adopt self-control, discipline and compassion in their dealings and conduct. The Service enjoins them to eschew bitterness, disloyalty, fake news, hate speech and violence.”
The Assistant Inspector-General of Police, Zone 2 Command, Onikan, Lagos, Mr Olatoye Durosinmi, assured residents of Lagos and Ogun states of adequate security during the Easter celebrations.
The AIG gave the assurance in a statement signed by the Zonal Public Relations Officer, SP Umma Ayuba, on Friday.
Durosinmi directed the Commissioners of Police in Lagos and Ogun states, alongside commanders of tactical units and all officers in the zone to implement heightened security measures across the region as reported by punchng.
The statement read in part, “The security measures include increased patrols and security presence in religious centres, shopping malls, tourist attractions, marketplaces, commercial districts, social gatherings and residential areas.
“Also included are highways and major roads, motor parks, garages, relaxation centres, train stations and bus terminals, critical national infrastructure, government and private property.
“These measures are designed to ensure the safety and security of all residents during the Easter holiday.
“Traffic flow will also be closely monitored to minimise congestion and maintain smooth movement throughout the festive period.”
The police boss, who wished all residents of Lagos and Ogun states a happy and peaceful Easter celebration, encouraged them to celebrate freely without fear of harassment or violence.
