Police Launch School Protection Squad in Ekiti to Enhance Security

The Nigerian Police Force has initiated a School Protection Squad (SPS) in Ekiti State aimed at safeguarding schools, students, teachers, and educational infrastructure from kidnapping and other security threats. This initiative comes in response to the rising concerns over school attacks that have instilled fear among educators, students, and parents, leading to numerous school closures across the region.

At the Strategic Stakeholders Forum on School Security held in Ado-Ekiti, Lanre Ogunlowo, the Coordinator of the Safe School Unit, emphasized that the SPS was conceived under the leadership of Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Ebegtokun. The primary goal of the initiative is to create a safe and conducive learning environment throughout the state.

Ogunlowo reiterated the commitment of the Nigerian Police to preventing attacks on educational institutions nationwide and urged community support to foster a safer school environment. "It is essential for us to work hand in hand with the communities to ensure the safety of our schools," he stated.

Ekiti State Commissioner for Police, Mr. Akinwale Adeniran, further outlined the SPS's objectives, which include visibility patrols around schools, community policing, and effective intelligence gathering. He expressed his satisfaction that Ekiti State was among the first to implement this crucial initiative, which he believes will strengthen existing security measures in the area.

Governor Biodun Oyebanji praised the establishment of the School Protection Squad, affirming that it will significantly contribute to addressing the ongoing security challenges faced by educational institutions in the country. He assured that the state government is prepared to support police and other security agencies in their efforts to create a secure and conducive environment for learning in Ekiti State.