The Kwara State Police Command has urged worshipers of the indigenous traditional religion, commonly known as Isese, to consider relocating their planned festival celebration slated for August 20, 2023, to other parts of the country. The Command, in a statement issued on Monday evening, highlighted the current security situation in the state as a key factor in this decision.
The statement, signed by SP Okasanmi Ajayi, the Police Public Relations Officer, revealed that the Command had engaged in discussions with the traditional worshipers, advising them to explore alternative venues in different states for their festive observances.
The police authorities emphasized that the decision was taken after consultations with local vigilante groups, community policing members, and traditional worship leaders from Kwara and neighboring states. These discussions underscored the prevailing intelligence gathered by the Police Command, which raised concerns about the feasibility of the planned celebrations.
The statement read, “In light of the intelligence at hand, the Kwara State Police Command has advised the religious sect planning the festivities to temporarily relocate to another state, pending a more favorable security environment within Kwara State.”
Furthermore, the Command disclosed plans to implement a new security strategy aimed at fostering peaceful coexistence among residents and curbing criminal activities across the state. As part of this strategy, a comprehensive 24-hour stop-and-search operation will be carried out by law enforcement personnel on individuals and vehicles throughout Kwara State.
“In line with our unwavering commitment to ensure the safety and security of the people of Kwara, the Commissioner of Police, CP. Ebunoluwarotimi Adelesi psc+, FISN, convened a meeting with heads of all security agencies in the state to assess the security landscape and enhance existing strategies. These comprehensive security measures encompass the implementation of the ‘Harmony Security Week,’ featuring intensive stop-and-search initiatives, motorized and foot patrols, conducted round-the-clock,” the statement continued.
The Kwara State Police Command took this opportunity to reassure the public that individuals encountering law enforcement personnel during these operations should remain composed and cooperate during body and vehicle searches. The officers deployed for this operation have been duly trained and instructed to uphold citizens’ rights while executing their duties.
The Command also issued a stern warning to potential wrongdoers, emphasizing that any individual found engaging in activities that pose a threat to security within Kwara State will be apprehended and subjected to legal proceedings.
As the state prepares for the upcoming festival and the subsequent security operations, the Kwara State Police Command remains steadfast in its commitment to safeguarding the well-being of its residents and maintaining a secure environment for all.
