Segun Ayinde, Abeokuta
The Ogun State Police Command has launched the Inspector-General of Police Safe Schools Initiative and inaugurated the Safer Schools Protection Squad (SPS) to enhance the security of educational institutions, particularly primary and secondary schools, across the state’s 20 local government areas.
Speaking at the stakeholders’ forum on the security of schools in Ogun State and the training of the Schools Protection Squad (SPS) held in Abeokuta, the state capital, Commissioner of Police Abiodun Alamutu emphasized the importance of safeguarding schools from threats such as bullying, kidnapping, terrorism, and other forms of insecurity.
He warned that failure to address these issues could disrupt academic activities and endanger students’ lives.
Alamutu highlighted the collaboration between the police and the federal government to fortify schools with mechanisms like rapid deployment, vehicular patrols, and orientation programs for students, principals, and other stakeholders.
He stressed the importance of a secure and violence-free learning environment to nurture excellence and productivity in society.
“I stand before you today with a profound sense of responsibility and hope as we launch the Inspector-General of Police Safe Schools Initiative and inaugurate the Ogun State Police Command’s Schools Protection Squad. Our educational institutions, as sanctuaries of knowledge and development, must be protected against any threats that could disrupt learning or endanger lives,” he said.
The CP announced plans to conduct training workshops for educators, administrators, and security personnel on modern protective technologies. Parents, guardians, and students will also be educated on measures to ensure safety in schools.
Governor Dapo Abiodun, represented by the Commissioner for Education, Science, and Technology, Prof. Abayomi Arigbabu, commended the initiative, noting the critical importance of safeguarding educational institutions.
“As a state with a large number of educational institutions, the safety and security of learners, especially in primary and secondary schools, are paramount. This effort requires collaboration between security agencies, educational authorities, and host communities,” he said.
Abiodun called for a holistic approach to security, emphasizing resilience and the involvement of all stakeholders.
“Without the safety and security of our children, there can be no meaningful education or sustainable development. Safeguarding schools requires a partnership between the government, local communities, security agencies, parents, and the private sector,” he added.
CP Lanre Ogunlowo, who oversees school security, revealed that between 2012 and 2016, over 600 teachers were killed or attacked, and more than 19,000 students displaced nationwide, underscoring the urgent need for the SPS.
The forum, themed “Strengthening Security Resilience and Integration of Host Communities in Education,” aimed to address the growing security challenges in schools and ensure that teachers and students are adequately protected.