NSCDC deploys 1,542 personnel for security in Edo

Ahead of the 2026 Eid-el-Kabir festivities, the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps in Edo has mobilised 1,542 operatives to strengthen security across the state.

The Edo State Commandant of the corps, Saidi Akintayo, disclosed the development on Friday during a press briefing in Benin City.

According to him, the deployment followed directives issued by the Commandant General of the NSCDC, Ahmed Audi, as part of measures to guarantee a peaceful celebration in all parts of Edo State.

Akintayo explained that officers drawn from various specialised formations, including the tactical squad, counter-terrorism unit, intelligence and investigation department, armed squad, Agro Rangers and operations department, had been assigned to strategic locations across the three senatorial districts.

“Our personnel have been strategically positioned at Eid prayer grounds, marketplaces, recreational centres, highways, motor parks, worship centres and other vulnerable locations to provide adequate security before, during and after the celebration,” he said.

He added that area commanders and divisional officers had been instructed to intensify surveillance, patrols and intelligence operations throughout the festive period to forestall any security breach.

The commandant warned criminal elements against causing trouble in the state, stressing that security operatives would respond firmly to threats to public safety.

“We will not tolerate any act capable of threatening the peace and security currently enjoyed in the state,” he said.

Akintayo also urged residents to remain alert and cooperate with security agencies by reporting suspicious activities within their communities.

He commended Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, for supporting security agencies, noting that such assistance had improved the command’s operational capacity.

The NSCDC boss further applauded the cooperation among security agencies in Edo, describing it as essential to sustaining peace and order across the state.

He encouraged Muslims to embrace the values associated with Eid-el-Kabir, including sacrifice, tolerance, peace, unity and love.

Eid-el-Kabir, one of the most significant festivals in Islam, commemorates Prophet Ibrahim’s willingness to sacrifice his son in obedience to Allah’s command before a ram was provided in his place. The celebration also coincides with the annual Hajj pilgrimage.

The Sultan of Sokoto and President-General of the Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs, Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar III, had earlier announced May 27, 2026, as the date for this year’s Eid-el-Kabir celebration.