By Charles Maduka
The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has announced the deployment of 500 personnel to ensure security during the coronation of the Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Akeem Owoade. The event is scheduled to take place in Oyo town on Saturday.
The security personnel will be responsible for crowd control, maintaining order, and protecting key infrastructure throughout the ceremony.
Dignitaries expected at the coronation include former Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, four ambassadors from different countries, and over 200 Oyo indigenes based in Canada. Also expected are top traditional rulers such as the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi; the Oba of Benin, Omo N’Oba N’Edo Uku Akpolokpolo; the Sultan of Sokoto, Sa’ad Abubakar III; and the Olu of Warri, Ogiame Atuwatse III, among others.
According to a statement by the Public Relations Officer of the NSCDC in Oyo State, Samuel Opebiyi, officers will be stationed strategically at the coronation venue, major roads, and other key locations in Oyo town.
The main ceremony will be held at Olivet Baptist Height, while ten other venues have been designated by the Local Organising Committee to accommodate guests.
The Oyo State NSCDC Command, led by Commandant Augustine Padonu, assured that its personnel have been specially trained for the event, which is expected to attract a large crowd.
The statement read: “The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, Oyo State Command, under the leadership of Commandant Augustine Padonu, has put in place a comprehensive security plan to ensure a smooth and secure coronation ceremony for His Imperial Majesty, Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Abimbola Akeem Owoade I.
“Given the importance of this historic event and the large number of attendees expected, NSCDC will be deploying about 500 highly trained personnel to provide security, ensure crowd control, and safeguard critical infrastructure throughout the ceremony. Our officers will be stationed at key locations, including the coronation venue, major roads, and other strategic areas in Oyo town, to prevent any security breaches.”
The NSCDC also stated that it is working closely with other security agencies to ensure a peaceful event.
“NSCDC is an integral part of the committee overseeing the coronation’s security. We are collaborating with other security agencies to maintain law and order before, during, and after the event. Our experienced officers will monitor activities and respond promptly to any security concerns.
“NSCDC remains committed to its duty of protecting lives and property. We assure residents and guests that all necessary measures have been taken to guarantee their safety throughout the coronation festivities. We also urge the public to cooperate with security operatives and follow all guidelines for a successful and peaceful event,” the statement added.
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