By Adesakin Adefemi
The Ondo State Police Command has tightened security across Akure ahead of Vice-President Kashim Shettima’s visit to the state on Monday.
The deployment is to ensure a hitch-free inauguration of the Onyearugbulem Flyover and the 100th birthday celebration of Afenifere leader, Pa Reuben Fasoranti.
Shettima is in Akure to commission the flyover constructed by Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa. The project, named after the Onyearugbulem junction, was flagged off by the late Governor Oluwarotimi Akeredolu in July 2023 and has now been completed for public use.
After the commissioning, the vice-president is expected to visit Pa Fasoranti at his residence to mark the nonagenarian’s centenary birthday. The visit has drawn dignitaries and well-wishers from across the country.
DSP Abayomi Jimoh, the police command’s spokesperson, said a watertight security arrangement has been put in place. He told the News Agency of Nigeria that measures were designed to protect the vice-president, the celebrant, and all guests at the events.
According to him, personnel from the Police Mobile Force, tactical units, and the Explosive Ordnance Disposal and Chemical, Biological, Radiological and Nuclear team have been strategically deployed to key locations in the state capital.
“The command has emplaced robust security measures to guarantee the safety of the Vice President, the celebrant, and all well-wishers throughout the event,” Jimoh said. He added that the aim is to prevent any breach and ensure a peaceful celebration.
Personnel of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, Federal Road Safety Corps, and the Amotekun Corps are also manning major roads leading to Fasoranti’s residence. The joint deployment is to control traffic and maintain order throughout the day.
Governor Aiyedatiwa’s administration has described the flyover as part of efforts to ease traffic congestion and improve infrastructure in Akure. The project is one of several legacy works inherited from the Akeredolu administration.
Shettima’s visit underscores the federal government’s engagement with Ondo State on infrastructure and national unity. The combination of the project inauguration and Fasoranti’s birthday has made the visit one of the most closely watched events in the state this week.
