The Inspector General of Police, Mohammed Abubakar has advised Nigerians to be security conscious during the Easter celebrations.
He also enjoined worshipers both at Jumat and Church services to take adequate measures to reduce the number of vehicles around the premises of their worship centres so as to make the tasks of keeping surveillance on the areas easier.
The advice was given against the backdrop of recent security challenges in the country and the general preparation for the forthcoming Easter Celebrations.
Frank Mba, the Force Public Relations Officer said the police authority also advises that abandoned and disused vehicles should not be parked within or close to places of worship and residential areas. It further highlights the need for vehicles parked overnight in those premises to be properly vetted and identified.
He also emphasized that empty containers and other forms of receptacles (including dustbins) not in use should be properly disposed or stored far away from the reach of unauthorized persons. He also stressed the need for flower pots and flower edges around residential buildings, offices and worship centres to be kept clear and regularly checked for foreign or suspicious objects.
The statement reads further, “The Police High Command also enjoins worshippers to make conscious effort to know fellow members of their congregation, as this will make it easier to know who is a stranger in their midst. It reiterates the need for worshippers to be security alert and report all suspicious characters and observations to the Police.
“The worship centres are enjoined to discourage hawking and clustering/loitering around the worship centres after service. Worshippers are equally advised to refrain from entering the worship centres with hand bags, brief-cases and other related items.
“The Force equally advises operators of motor parks, shopping malls and recreational centres to work very closely with the Police and other security agencies as they strive to strengthen general security in their respective facilities.
“While assuring the public of his administration’s readiness and commitment towards ensuring a safe and secure environment, the Inspector-General Police, Mohammed Abubakar, wishes Nigerians a very peaceful and happy Easter Celebrations”.
