May 29; Oyo Police Cautions Against Illegal Firearms Possession

The Oyo State Police Command has warned that unauthorised possession of weapons and firearms will not be tolerated during the second term inauguration of the state governor, Seyi Makinde, and his deputy, Bayo Lawal, on Monday, May 29.

It further warned that defaulters risk heavy sanctions and prosecution, no matter how highly placed in society.

In a statement by its spokesperson, Adewale Osifeso, the command said only accredited security agents would be allowed to carry weapons at Liberty Stadium, the venue of the inauguration, and its environs.

He assured that adequate personnel have been detailed to protect the length and breadth of the state, including major roads, highways, airports, critical infrastructure, and boundaries in and out of the state.

 “There shall be high-octane joint patrols with other sister agencies, intensive stop and search at designated points across the nook and cranny of the state, intelligence-led surveillance activities and visibility policing in line with standard operational procedure.

"So also, residents shall witness the high-level deployment of command’s operational, intelligence and tactical assets with a view to fortifying the inauguration venue and areas in proximity.”

The PPRO explained that the action became imperative in line with the directives of the Inspector General of Police, Usman Baba, towards a successful inauguration.

He, therefore, warned those with no business around the inauguration ceremony or with the intent to foment trouble to steer clear or face the music.

Osifeso said in order to control the traffic, there will be a diversion of vehicles in the following areas.

“Bola Ige/Christ High School junction, Liberty road, an alternative route is Imalefalafia to Ring Road; Jogor Center/Liberty road junction, an alternative route is Iyana-Adeoyo through Ososami to Ibadan Central Mosque to Molete/Oke-Ado road and Ansarudeen/Liberty road, an alternative route is Bola Ige junction through Ososami to Iyana-Adeoyo.”

He added that there would be a road diversion to one-way from Ajibode Junction to Bodija/UI Junction.