Lagos and Ondo Governments Issue Easter Security Warnings to Residents
As Nigerians join global celebrations for Easter, the Lagos State Government has issued a strong advisory urging residents to prioritize safety and exercise heightened caution. In a parallel move, Ondo State Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa called on citizens to remain vigilant and security-conscious throughout the festive period. These warnings come amid concerns over potential risks during increased social activities.
Lagos State Emphasizes Road Safety and Crowd Vigilance
Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu conveyed the message through a statement released by Dr Olufemi Oke-Osanyintolu, Permanent Secretary of the Lagos State Emergency Management Agency (LASEMA). Oke-Osanyintolu highlighted that Easter, while a time for celebration and reflection, also brings elevated dangers, particularly on major highways, in crowded public gatherings, and within homes where mishandling of electrical appliances or open flames could trigger fire outbreaks.
He specifically advised motorists to adhere strictly to traffic regulations, avoid reckless driving, and ensure their vehicles are roadworthy before embarking on journeys. Additionally, residents were encouraged to maintain alertness in high-density locations such as religious centers, recreational parks, and event venues, stressing that vigilance is crucial for accident prevention and swift emergency response.
Ondo State Assures Robust Security Measures
In Ondo State, Governor Aiyedatiwa assured that comprehensive security protocols have been implemented to safeguard lives and property during the festivities. According to a statement by Commissioner for Information and Orientation Idowu Ajanaku, security agencies have been strategically deployed across the state, with continuous surveillance and intelligence operations to preempt any disruptions to peace.
However, the government strongly advised residents to remain proactive in their security awareness, urging them to report any suspicious movements or activities promptly to relevant authorities. This dual approach aims to combine official efforts with community cooperation to enhance overall safety.
Catholic Leaders Condemn Plateau Killings and Criticize Government Inaction
Amid the Easter observances, Most Rev. Emmanuel Badejo, Catholic Bishop of Oyo Diocese, voiced sharp criticism of Nigeria's handling of security crises, calling for an end to impunity. In a media interaction in Ibadan, Badejo referenced biblical teachings to emphasize that Easter symbolizes life, not death, and lamented the failure of leaders to protect citizens.
He questioned why leaders engage in political rallies while citizens face violence, noting incidents in Jos, Kaduna, and Zamfara. Badejo urged all levels of government to take decisive action against terrorists and restore order, stating that securing Nigerian lives should be the paramount Easter priority. He also highlighted a perceived disparity in law enforcement, criticizing security agents for being vigorous against protesters and fraudsters but seemingly ineffective against terrorists and kidnappers.
Similarly, the Catholic Secretariat of Nigeria condemned the killing of 27 individuals in three Plateau State communities—Angwan Rukuba, Gari Ya Waye, and Atakyu—on March 29, 2026. In a statement from Abuja, signed by Rev. Fr. Michael A. Banjo and Rev. Fr. Michael Nsikak Umoh, the Secretariat described the attack as a sacrilege against life on a holy Christian day. They called on the Federal Government and security agencies to identify, arrest, and prosecute the perpetrators and sponsors, while also demanding an inquiry into possible official negligence, enhanced intelligence, and humanitarian aid for affected families.
Transport Operators Report Low Passenger Turnout Due to Economic Hardship
In Lagos, transport operators expressed concerns over significantly reduced passenger numbers ahead of Easter, attributing the decline to soaring fuel costs and broader economic challenges. Mr Christian Omoh, Manager of Bonnyway Transport's Jibowu branch, noted that passenger traffic had plummeted compared to the previous year, with diesel prices rising to between N1,800 and N1,900 per litre, forcing fare increases.
Fares to eastern regions have surged from N20,000-N21,000 to N30,000-N35,000, deterring many from traveling. Omoh reported that operators who typically filled multiple buses daily during festive seasons are now struggling to load even half a bus, appealing for government intervention to reduce diesel prices and address high maintenance costs.
Echoing this sentiment, Mr Ajayioba Gabriel, Branch Manager of Chisco Transport Nigeria Ltd., stated that the usual Easter rush had not materialized, with passenger movement remaining subdued. He cited fuel costs as a major factor, noting that fueling a bus now requires N600,000 to N700,000, with diesel prices more than doubling from N850 to over N1,900 per litre. Consequently, luxury bus fares have risen from N35,000 to N40,000 on some routes, leading many Nigerians to cancel travel plans and leaving operators struggling to break even.
Travelers also lamented the sharp hike in inter-state transport fares, which has disrupted their Easter plans, underscoring the broader economic pressures affecting festive celebrations across Nigeria.
