The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Edo State Command, has deployed 1,542 personnel across the state ahead of the 2026 Eid-el-Kabir celebration to ensure adequate security and a peaceful festive period.
The Commandant of the Corps in Edo State, Mr. Saidi Akintayo, made this known on Friday during a press briefing in Benin City.
He explained that the deployment was carried out in line with directives from the Commandant General of the NSCDC, Ahmed Audi, and was part of efforts to guarantee a safe and hitch-free celebration across all three senatorial districts of the state.
According to him, the personnel were drawn from various specialised units including the tactical team, counter-terrorism unit, intelligence and investigation department, armed squad, agro-rangers, and operations division.
Akintayo said officers had been strategically stationed at key locations such as Eid prayer grounds, markets, motor parks, recreational centres, highways, worship centres, and other areas considered vulnerable to security threats.
“Our personnel have been strategically positioned across the state to ensure adequate security before, during and after the celebration,” he said.
He added that area commanders, divisional officers and heads of formations had been directed to intensify patrols, surveillance, and intelligence gathering to prevent any breakdown of law and order during the festive period.
The commandant warned criminal elements to steer clear of Edo State, stressing that the corps was fully prepared to respond decisively to any attempt to disrupt public peace.
“We will not tolerate any act capable of threatening the peace and security currently being enjoyed in the state,” he stated.
Akintayo also called on residents to remain vigilant and support security agencies by providing credible information on suspicious activities within their communities.
He commended Governor Monday Okpebholo for his continued support to security agencies in the state, noting that such backing had strengthened operational effectiveness.
He also praised inter-agency collaboration, describing it as essential to maintaining peace and order across Edo State during the festive period.
Meanwhile, Eid-el-Kabir, which is marked globally by Muslims as a festival of sacrifice, is expected to be observed on May 27, 2026, according to the Sultan of Sokoto, Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar III.
The celebration commemorates the story of Prophet Ibrahim’s obedience to God and is observed through prayers, charity, and the sacrifice of animals among faithful Muslims worldwide.
