The Commissioner of Police in Ondo State, Adebowale Lawal, has directed that functional Close Circuit Television(CCTV) cameras be installed in all worship centres in the state as part of the efforts at combating the rising insecurity.
Lawal gave the directive on Sunday during his visit to some worship centres in the state.
This is contained in a statement issued by DSP Abayomi Jimoh, the spokesperson for the Police Command in the state, on Sunday in Akure.
The commissioner of police insisted in compliance with the installation of CCTV cameras in worship centres in line with the Ondo State Executive Order of 2022.
He emphasised that installation of functional CCTV cameras would aid monitoring and intelligence gathering within their premises.
The police commissioner conducted comprehensive security assessment of religious facilities during the visit, as part of efforts to bolster security and enhance intelligence gathering.
Some of worship centres visited include NASFAT Central Mosque, Akure; St. Stephen Anglican Church, Ipele; St. Patrick’s Catholic Church, Ijebu-Owo; Holy Trinity Catholic Church, Owo; Ansarudeen Central Mosque, Owo; Celestial Church of Christ, Uso; NASFAT Mosque, Owo; and Anglican Methodist Church, Owo, among others.
According to him, the visit is aimed at assessing the security status of worship centres and ensuring compliance with the state government’s directive mandating the installation of CCTV cameras in religious and other public spaces.
The police boss charged religious leaders to remain vigilant and put in place adequate security measures, including proper screening of worshippers at entry points.
The statement read in parts: “During the visits, the Commissioner of Police charged religious leaders to remain vigilant and to implement adequate security measures, including proper screening of congregants at entry points and the installation of functional CCTV cameras to aid intelligence gathering and effective monitoring of activities within their premises.
“The CP further urged the good people of Ondo State to promptly provide actionable and credible information to the Police, emphasizing that the security of lives and property remains a collective responsibility.
“Conclusively, the Commissioner of Police also directed operatives of the Command deployed to worship centres to remain steadfast, proactive, and professional in the discharge of their lawful duties at all times.
“The Ondo State Police Command remains committed to ensuring the safety and security of all residents and worshippers across the State.”
