FCT Police Intensify Church Patrols to Combat Crime in Ember Months
Police Boost Church Security in FCT During Ember Months

The Federal Capital Territory Police Command has significantly increased security operations around churches and border communities as part of proactive measures to combat crime during the ember months.

Enhanced Security Operations

Commissioner of Police CP Miller G. Dantawaye has directed special patrol operations following broader security directives that may trace back to President Bola Tinubu's order for security chiefs to ensure nationwide safety. This comes amid international attention on religious security concerns.

According to a statement released by Police Public Relations Officer Josephine Adeh on Monday, November 10, 2025, the extensive patrol conducted on November 9, 2025, involved multiple security agencies working in coordination.

Multi-Agency Collaboration

The operation featured personnel from the Command's Anti-Kidnapping Unit working alongside the Department of State Services (DSS), local hunters, and vigilante groups. This collaborative effort represents a comprehensive approach to security challenges in the territory.

The security exercise ran from 6:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., covering critical forested and border areas that connect Bwari to Kaduna State, Bwari to Niger State, and Gwagwalada to Niger State. These locations have been identified as potential routes for criminal activities.

Community Engagement and Safety Measures

During the patrol operations, church leaders in affected communities received direct engagement from security forces. They were reassured of the police command's unwavering commitment to their safety and provided with practical security guidance.

Security authorities advised religious institutions to implement several precautionary measures:

  • Limiting late-night activities and services
  • Maintaining regular communication with security agencies
  • Promptly reporting suspicious persons or movements

CP Dantawaye has further ordered the blocking of identified access routes frequently exploited by criminal elements as part of intelligence-led preventive strategies. Strategic security posts within forested zones remain operational under constant supervision.

Public Cooperation Essential

The Police Command emphasized that safety represents a shared responsibility and urged residents to maintain vigilance. Citizens are encouraged to report suspicious activities immediately and cooperate fully with security agencies.

For emergencies or to provide information, the public can contact the FCT Police Command through several dedicated channels:

  • 08032003913
  • 08068587311
  • Complaint Response Unit (CRU): 08107314192
  • Public Relations Officer: 07038979348

Commissioner Dantawaye assured FCT residents that the territory remains safe while promising that the Command will continue developing dynamic strategies to maintain peace and ensure a crime-free environment for all citizens.

In related security developments, Ogun State Commissioner of Police CP Lanre Ogunlowo has charged newly promoted officers to perform their duties with integrity and fairness. The decoration ceremony at Police Headquarters in Eleweran, Abeokuta, saw several officers elevated to new ranks, including Chief Superintendent of Police and Superintendent of Police positions.