The Ogun State Police Command has deployed its School Protection Squad to schools across the state as part of measures to strengthen security ahead of the resumption of academic activities.
The deployment comes ahead of the September 14 resumption date and is aimed at increasing police presence around primary and secondary schools while protecting pupils, teachers, school personnel and infrastructure.
The command said the squad would also help gather useful intelligence and ensure quick response to emerging security threats within and around school premises.
The move was disclosed by the Commissioner of Police, Bode Ojajuni, during a meeting with an executive delegation of the Police Community Relations Committee Safe School Club at the command headquarters in Abeokuta.
The meeting focused on strengthening cooperation between the police, school authorities, parents, students and members of the communities where schools are located.
According to the command, the partnership would help security agencies identify and report potential threats early before they develop into serious incidents.
Ojajuni charged members of the School Protection Squad to remain alert, maintain regular contact with school communities and respond quickly to credible security information.
He also urged school proprietors, administrators, teachers, parents and students to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities around their schools.
The police advised residents to follow the principle of “See Something, Say Something,” stressing that suspicious persons, vehicles or movements should not be ignored.
The command assured residents that the School Protection Squad, working with the PCRC and other stakeholders, was prepared to protect schools and respond swiftly to emergencies across Ogun State.