The Abia State Command of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps has deployed about 970 personnel for security before, during and after Christmas and New Year celebrations.
The State Commandant, Muhammad Sanyinna, disclosed this in Umuahia on Wednesday after meeting with his Heads of Departments/Units, Area Commanders, Divisional Officers and Heads of Tactical Teams at the Command Headquarters.
He also reassured residents of adequate security of lives and property before, during and after the yuletide celebrations.
According to him, strategic deployment has been made across the length and breadth of the state with special attention to worship and events centers, government installations, motor parks, markets and malls while motorized patrols have been stepped up to accommodate other soft targets/blacks spots.
Muhammad said the crucial meeting became necessary “to review earlier strategies and make adjustments where necessary to tackle crimes in the state as well as put in place measures to contain the pressures usually associated with the yuletide”.
While addressing the Commanders of the Command’s specialized Units, Commandant Muhammad charged them, “you are already aware that this season usually comes with increased pressure on security and traffic.
“You are therefore to carefully monitor the prevalent crimes in your locations, its dynamics and remain on full security alert to nip them in the bud and ensure a hitch-free celebration”.
He cautioned his personnel against any form of laxity and unprofessional conduct in carrying out this crucial assignment.
“This strategic deployment is in strict compliance with the directives of the Commandant General, Dr. Ahmed Abubakar Audi to ensure the protection of lives of citizens, Critical National Assets and Infrastructures of government.
“This assignment must therefore be carried out to the later without compromise to international best practices”, he warned.
While thanking God for the relative peace in the state, the Abia NSCDC boss restated his command’s readiness to work closely with other security agencies as “there is no alternative to effective synergy in combating crimes”.
He advised the general public to remain vigilant and report suspicious movements to the nearest security formation adding that security remains the business of all.
Meanwhile, the State Commandant has wished the Christian faithful in the state a peaceful celebration and called on the residents to remain law abiding to sustain the relative peace being enjoyed in the state.
