Akpan Umoh, Uyo
The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) says the Akwa Ibom State Command of the agency has deployed 700 operatives to beef up security during the eid-el-fitr celebration across the state.
This was contained in a statement issued by the Command Public Relations Officer, Mr Friday Ekerete in Uyo on Friday.
“The Akwa Ibom State Commandant of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps has approved the deployment of 700 personnel of the Corps to beef up security in the state all through Eid-el-fitr celebration.
“The deployment is a proactive measure to ensure that the peace enjoyed in the state is sustained and the festivities are celebrated without hitches.
“The NSCDC boss commend the Executive Governor of the State, Mr Udom Emmanuel for his unflinching support to the security services in the state,” Ekerete said.
Ekerete in the statement said the State Commandant, Mr Abidemi Majekodunmi, while addressing personnel deployed, emphasized on the use of non-kinetic force in the operation
.He said the commandant charged the squad commanders to coordinate their teams professionally and focus more on deterrence and prevention of crimes, breakdown of law and order in their areas of responsibilities.
The command PRO said the teams were directed to carry out crowd control duties where need arises
.He said the personnel were drawn from the Armed squad, special female squad, anti-vandal and Agro Ranger units of the corps
.He added that places of interest where security would be beefed up are; mosques, praying grounds, recreational centres, malls and parks.
The patrol teams have also been constituted to patrol strategic locations and identified hotspots in the state, including all entry and exit points in the state – Abia, Rivers and Cross River states.
He said the Divisional Officers have been directed to coordinate their activities in synergy with sister security agencies for effectiveness.
Ekerete in the statement said while wishing Muslim Ummahs a joyous celebration, the commandant sued for peace, love and understanding among Akwa Ibom residents.