Reportedly, traditional worshippers in Kwara State have been
instructed to cancel their
planned Isese festival due to concerns over
security, as stated by Naija News.
The Nigeria Police, Kwara State command, conveyed this
caution through a statement issued on Monday by its Public Relations Officer,
SP Okasanmi Ajayi.
It is understood that the followers of the traditional
religion had initially chosen August 20, 2023, to observe Isese Day within the
state. However, they have been advised to relocate the event elsewhere due to
the unfavorable security conditions within the state.
In accordance with the Police Command, a meeting was convened
with the worshippers, during which they were suggested to find an alternative
location for their celebration within another state of the country.
The statement declared: “The Police Command has engaged
in discussions with the vigilante groups, local hunters, community policing
members, and the leadership of the traditional worshippers in Kwara, along with
some of their representatives from neighboring states. They have been informed
that the available intelligence does not support the intended celebrations of
one of the religious groups within the state. Consequently, they have been
recommended to postpone their celebration to a different state until a more
suitable security situation is established within Kwara.”
The police have outlined their intentions to implement a
novel approach aimed at fostering peaceful coexistence among the populace and
curbing criminal activities across the entire state. As part of this approach,
a continuous 24-hour stop-and-search operation will be carried out on
individuals and vehicles within the state.
The statement elaborated: “In continuation of the
diligent efforts of the Kwara State Police Command to ensure the safety and
security of the good people of Kwara, the Commissioner of Police for the state,
CP. Ebunoluwarotimi Adelesi psc+, FISN, convened a meeting with the Service
Commanders, encompassing the heads of all security agencies within the state. This
meeting deliberated on the security situation within the state, dissecting
existing strategies, and ensuring meticulous attention to detail.
“Fresh security measures have now been executed across
the entire expanse of Kwara State. Among these measures is the ‘Harmony
Security Week,’ an operation encompassing proactive stop-and-search activities,
both motorized and foot patrols, conducted round the clock.
“To this effect, the Commissioner of Police wishes to
notify the citizens of Kwara State about this special security operation,
advising them not to be alarmed or anxious when encountering the police
officers involved in this assignment. Instead, they are urged to cooperate and
willingly submit themselves to body and vehicular searches whenever requested.
The personnel assigned to this operation have received training and directives
to respect the rights of all citizens during the course of their duties.”
Furthermore, the Police Command issued a stern warning to
potential lawbreakers, emphasizing that anyone engaging in activities that pose
a threat to security in any manner will face arrest and prosecution, without
exception.
