The Bauchi State Police Command beefed up security in and around the state ahead of Monday’s inauguration of the state governor, Senator Bala Abdulkadir Mohammed, for his second term in office.

In view of this, the command informed that the state Commissioner of Police, Aminu Alhassan, will lead the operation as commander of this operation, while the Deputy Commissioner of Police in charge of the Department of Operations, DCP Bello Shehu, will assist him alongside other co-opted heads of operations from various security agencies.

A release signed by the command’s Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), Ahmed Mohammed Wakil, made available to journalists in Bauchi on Saturday informed that since the conclusion of the 2023 general elections and the announcement of the governor-elect, the command has implemented comprehensive security measures throughout the state.

“Specific plans have been formulated for the inauguration ceremony, outlined in the operation order, ensuring heightened protection while accommodating invited guests, well-meaning Nigerians, and the international community in witnessing this significant event,” Wakil, a Superintendent of Police (SP) stated.

According to him, the command is collaborating closely with all levels of government, private sector, the Nigerian Armed Forces and other security agencies, adding that the police are committed to ensuring the safety and security of all citizens with a view to facilitating a commendable and seamless inauguration ceremony on May 29, 2023.

“The Bauchi State Police Command has mobilized its operational and human resources to establish a robust security arrangement. Adequate personnel have been assigned to safeguard the Government House/VIP Lodges, provide security in and around the stadium, monitor the state’s borders, and oversee entry and exit points, as well as critical government installations.

“The deployed operatives include members of the Nigeria Police Bauchi State Command and other tactical squads, such as the Police Mobile Force (PMF), Counter Terrorism Unit (CTU), Special Protection Unit (SPU), Explosive Ordinance Disposal (EOD) CBRN, SIB State Intelligence Bureau, NPF Medical, NPF Mounted Troops, and K9 units, among others.

“Additionally, the command has deployed all available patrol vehicles and highly efficient drones for aerial surveillance within the state and its surroundings. Furthermore, the command’s Armoured Personnel Carriers (APCs) will be stationed at strategic locations around the state,” the police spokesman stated.

Furthermore, the PPRO stated that the CP Alhassan has directed all Area Commanders, Tactical Commanders, Divisional Police Officers (DPOs), Heads of Departments, and other sister security agencies to reinforce the inauguration venue with operational equipment provided by the Force.

He then stated that the Commissioner of Police has called on all citizens to adhere to the rules and regulations governing the inauguration and swearing-in ceremony.

“Furthermore, he (CP) reminds the good citizens of the state to promptly report any suspicious activity or individuals to the police or other relevant security agencies.

“The Command sternly warns non-state actors or any aggrieved groups or individuals to pursue redress through due process and the rule of law, as law enforcement agencies will not hesitate to quell any confrontations or acts of insecurity.

“We implore all law-abiding citizens to support the police in our mission to ensure the safety and security of all. The command is fully committed to creating a safe and secure environment before, during, and after the inauguration,” the PPRO further stated.