Eid-el-Fitr: IGP Deploys Tactical Teams Nationwide
The Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Disu, has activated a comprehensive security framework for the Eid-el-Fitr celebrations, ordering the immediate nationwide deployment of tactical assets, intelligence operatives, and specialised police units to secure lives and property across all states and the Federal Capital Territory.
The directive, which comes as Muslim faithful in Nigeria mark the conclusion of the holy month of Ramadan, was contained in a statement issued on Friday by the Force Public Relations Officer, Anthony Placid. In the statement, the Inspector-General extended warm felicitations to the Muslim community, congratulating them on the successful completion of the fast and the joyous occasion.
Disu directed Commissioners of Police and Tactical Commanders in the 36 states and the FCT to implement comprehensive security measures tailored to the festive period. The operational blueprint includes the strategic positioning of tactical teams, the mobilisation of the Special Intervention Squad, and the deployment of conventional police personnel to Eid prayer grounds, critical national infrastructure, highways, motor parks, and recreational centres.
“Operational measures include strategic deployment of tactical teams and intelligence operatives, deployment of the Special Intervention Squad and conventional police personnel to Eid prayer grounds and critical infrastructure, and increased presence at highways, motor parks, recreational centres, and other public spaces to ensure peaceful and hitch-free celebrations,” the statement read in part.
The Inspector-General further ordered heightened visibility policing, coordinated patrols, enhanced surveillance operations, and intelligence-led stop-and-search duties across all formations. The measures are designed to proactively deter criminal activity and enable swift response to any emerging threats during the holiday period.
The directive aligns with a long-standing operational tradition of the Nigeria Police Force to intensify security arrangements during major religious and national celebrations. Previous Inspectors-General have issued similar orders ahead of Eid-el-Fitr, given the large gatherings at prayer grounds and the increased movement of citizens traveling to celebrate with family. The inclusion of the Special Intervention Squad—a specialised unit introduced in recent years to tackle banditry and other violent crimes—marks an evolution in the force’s approach to festive-period security.
Disu urged members of the public to remain vigilant and to cooperate actively with law enforcement personnel deployed across the country. He advised citizens to report any suspicious activities to the nearest police station or through designated emergency communication lines, emphasising that collective vigilance remains critical to ensuring a safe and peaceful celebration.