The Imo State Police Command and other security agencies have announced their preparedness for a watertight security for President Bola Tinubu’s visit to Owerri, the Imo State capital, on Tuesday.
President Tinubu is expected to commission a “number of transformative projects” which includes a book authored by Governor Hope Uzodimma that chronicles the history of the All Progressives Congress (APC) for the first 10 years, the rebuilt Owerri–Mbaise–Obowo–Umuahia Road, a brand-new flyover connecting Port Harcourt and Onitsha Roads, with major upgrades around the Assumpta Cathedral Roundabout, Owerri, amongst others, according to the Imo State government.
Police spokesperson for Imo State Command, DSP Henry Okoye, said already the Police alongside other security agencies had deployed security operatives across the state to ensure a hitch-free event.
According to him, security personnel have been strategically deployed to all entry and exit points in the State, as well as along the route from Sam Mbakwe International Cargo Airport to Owerri Metropolis and other LGAs, adding that route lining and robust security coverage have also been activated at all designated venues of the Presidential engagements.
Okoye disclosed that already Operation Show of Force and visibility patrols had been activated across the three senatorial zones of the state to assure residents of their security, adding that there will be total security coverage before, during, and after the visit.
Okoye said: “the Police, in synergy with the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), have adequately deployed Traffic Wardens to identified traffic congestion-prone areas to ensure free flow of traffic and ease of movement across Owerri metropolis and other strategic LGAs.
“The Commissioner of Police, Imo State Command, CP Aboki Danjuma, assures Imolites and visitors of their safety and enjoins them to remain law-abiding, cooperate with security personnel, and adhere to traffic diversions and other arrangements put in place for the success of the visit.”
The Police warned disruptors of peace to steer clear as security operatives were ready to deal decisively with any defaulter and would be made to face the music.
Okoye said: “the Command strongly warns all criminally minded elements intending to cause disruption or foment trouble that security agencies remain united, vigilant, and fully prepared to decisively respond to any breach of peace. Anyone caught engaging in acts capable of undermining the security architecture of the State will be promptly arrested and made to face the full wrath of the law.”
The Police appealed to Imo residents to immediately report any suspicious movement or persons to the nearest police station or through the Command’s emergency number 0803 477 3600, adding that, “together, we will ensure a peaceful and secure environment before, during, and after the Presidential visit.”