Major crimes dropped in Lagos, police commissioner says

Police credit intelligence, tactical expansion, community partnerships

Olohundare Jimoh, the Commissioner of Police in Lagos State, has said major crimes declined significantly across the state during his first year in office, attributing the improvement to intelligence-led policing, stronger operational strategies, and closer collaboration with communities.

Speaking with journalists at the state police headquarters in Ikeja on Tuesday, Jimoh said the command recorded notable progress in maintaining internal security between February 18, 2025, and February 17, 2026. He noted that public safety remained stable throughout the period, with civil protests managed professionally and without escalation into violence.

According to him, police ensured adequate protection for both protesters and other residents while responding swiftly to threats against critical infrastructure. He added that potential disruptions, including incidents involving key public assets such as the Third Mainland Bridge, were handled with minimal force and without serious consequences.

Jimoh also disclosed that cultism and related violent crimes declined sharply, particularly in areas previously known for frequent clashes, including Oshodi, Ketu, Mushin, and Lagos Island. He said several suspects connected to violent criminal activities were arrested, including a gang leader who had been on the police watchlist for nearly two decades.

Tactical expansion, technology strengthens security operations

The commissioner said the police command strengthened its operational capacity by expanding tactical squads from 23 to 35 units, ensuring broader coverage across all local government areas in the state. He explained that the expansion improved surveillance, rapid response, and crime prevention, particularly in high-risk locations.

He added that over 150 stolen vehicles were recovered during the year, following the establishment of specialised anti-car theft units across various area commands. These units, he said, were created to address rising concerns around vehicle theft and dismantle criminal networks involved in such activities.

Jimoh further revealed that the command introduced the Eko Strike Force to support existing units such as the Rapid Response Squad, enhancing the police force’s ability to respond quickly to emergencies and emerging threats. The unit was equipped with patrol vehicles and other operational resources provided through the Lagos State Security Trust Fund.

He emphasised that the use of technology and modern surveillance systems had improved the command’s efficiency, noting that Lagos now operates advanced control centres capable of monitoring activities across the state’s large population.

The police chief also highlighted the role of community engagement in improving security outcomes, stating that stronger relationships between officers and residents helped intelligence gathering and crime prevention.

Jimoh expressed appreciation to the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, for supporting the Lagos command, and to Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu for strengthening operational capacity through the donation of patrol vehicles and other resources.

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He reaffirmed the command’s commitment to sustaining security gains and ensuring Lagos remains safe for residents, businesses, and visitors, noting that the state’s position as Nigeria’s economic hub makes public safety a top priority.