Police assure of safety ahead of elections, Easter celebration in Lagos

Commissioner of Police, Lagos State Command, has promised adequate security during Election processes and Easter celebration.
CP Fatai Tijani, has therefore, called for stronger collaboration between the police and the public to enhance security and sustain peace across the state.
Tijani made the call during a Security Stakeholders Meeting held at the POWA Hall, Ikeja, as part of activities marking the National Police Week 2026.
He further warned against electoral violence as the country gradually approaches another election cycle, calling on political stakeholders and residents to embrace peaceful conduct throughout the process.
“We do not want any form of violence during the electoral process. Everyone should go about their political activities peacefully. Lagos has maintained a reputation for peace, and we must not allow that to change,” he said.
Tijani also assured residents of adequate security arrangements ahead of the Easter celebrations, stating that police personnel would be strategically deployed across churches and other public places to ensure safety.
“You will see increased security presence across the state during the Easter period. We are committed to protecting lives and property, and there is no cause for alarm,” he said.
He emphasised that policing cannot be effectively carried out by the police alone, stressing that every member of the society has a role to play in ensuring safety and security.
According to him, community policing remains a vital strategy in crime prevention, noting that Lagos State has continued to witness its positive impact through increased public participation and engagement.
“Policing is not a job for the police alone. Every individual is a stakeholder in ensuring a safe environment. The only difference is the uniform we wear. Outside that, we are all members of the same society,” he said.
The commissioner explained that the ongoing Police Week activities were designed to strengthen community engagement, build trust, and promote cooperation between law enforcement and residents.
He noted that the official National Police Day would be marked on April 7, but various programmes had been lined up throughout the week to sensitise the public and reinforce partnerships.
Tijani underscored the importance of intelligence gathering, urging residents to provide timely and credible information to security agencies, especially regarding suspicious movements and activities within their communities.
“We cannot be everywhere at the same time. Information from the public is critical to effective policing. If you see something unusual, report it. That is how we can prevent crime before it happens,” he said.
The police boss also expressed concern over rising social vices, particularly cultism among youths, urging parents, guardians, and community leaders to play active roles in guiding and educating young people on the dangers of criminal behaviour.
He reiterated that Lagos remains one of the safest states in the country, attributing this to sustained security efforts and the cooperation of residents.
He, however, urged the public not to relent in supporting the police, noting that the growing population of the state requires continuous vigilance and proactive measures.
“We want Lagos to remain safe and peaceful. On our part, we will continue to do everything possible to protect residents. We also expect the public to support us so that together, we can sustain the peace we all enjoy,” he said.
Also speaking at the event, the National Youth Council of Nigeria Lagos Chapter, Adigun Ibrahim, lamented that cultism, street gang, drug abuse and human trafficking are affecting the youths, but suggested engagement, empowerment and employment as a way of addressing those concerns.
He also advised that there should be a police youth advisory council across the state.
Apostle Kehinde Showemim, PCRC Chairman, congratulated the Police on the celebrations of the Nigeria Police Day since its establishment.
He urged a standing ovation for the police officers of the Lagos State command for always being stationed at their post to protect lives and property of the citizens.
Meanwhile, in a solemn moment during the event, a total of ₦53,387,209.48 was presented to the families of fallen police heroes, as benefits under the Inspector-General of Police Family Welfare Scheme. The gesture underscores the commitment of the Nigeria Police Force to the welfare of the families of officers who lost their lives in active service.
The beneficiaries expressed appreciation to the IGP and Lagos State Police Command for the support, noting that the assistance would significantly alleviate the challenges faced by the families left behind. The CP,however, reaffirmed that the sacrifices of fallen officers would never be forgotten and assured that the Force would continue to stand firmly with their families.