The Public Relations Officer of the Nigeria Police Force, Muyiwa Adejobi, has declared that the presence of over 4, 000 policemen at the 14th Biennial Police Games in Ibadan, the Oyo state capital, is to strengthen the security situation in the state.
Adejobi made this declaration on Thursday in Ibadan during a press conference to herald the games tagged Oluyole 2024.
Adejobi, flanked by Sulaimon Olanrewaju, the Chief Press Secretary to Governor Seyi Makinde, and Commissioner for Sports and Youths Wasilat Adegoke, said that the games will send a signal to criminal elements in the state to desist from their unlawful activities.
Adejobi, while addressing journalists, added that the games will go a long way towards bringing peace and unity to the country.
He added that the game was brought to Ibadan to strengthen the security of the state.
Adejobi said: “The essence is to bring peace, unity, and development to our dear country. To identify talents that will develop our sports. We are bringing more than 4, 000 policemen to Ibadan.
“Our presence in Ibadan is to bring a message to the criminals that the police are around. The headquarters is temporarily located in Ibadan. The IGP and all the zonal AIGs will be here. All the heads will be here. So, if you notice any strange movement, please bring it to our notice.
“A message from the IGP is that the games will bring positive development to Oyo State. It will help to develop the state. We appeal to all of us to be vigilant. All of us in Oyo state are to be vigilant.
“It goes beyond mere competition; it will send a signal to Nigerians to maintain the sovereignty of the country and to send out a message that we need peace in the country. Sport is one of the things we can use to strengthen the unity of the country. To develop the state economically and socially.”
Olanrewaju, while speaking, added that the state government had made several efforts to make the games a reality.
He said, “We have prepared to make the games a success. Please come and see policemen outside their primary assignment.”