The Pioneer Area Commander of Iseyin/Itesiwaju Local Government Areas of Oyo State, Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) Rufus Akanle Adegoke, has extended warm felicitations to Christians in the area and beyond as they celebrate the 2025 Christmas season, while strongly admonishing residents to celebrate the yuletide with moderation, responsibility, and heightened security awareness.
ACP Adegoke made this call in a goodwill message personally signed and made available to acrossnigerianews.com, where he emphasized the need for peace, lawful conduct, and collective responsibility during the Christmas and New Year festivities.
In his message, the senior police officer congratulated Christian faithful on the successful arrival of the Christmas season, describing it as a period that symbolizes love, sacrifice, compassion, and peaceful coexistence. He urged residents to reflect on these virtues and allow them to guide their conduct throughout the festive period and beyond.
While acknowledging the excitement that usually accompanies Christmas and New Year celebrations, ACP Adegoke cautioned against excesses that could endanger lives and disrupt public order.
He specifically advised residents of Iseyin and Itesiwaju (Otu) Local Government Areas to celebrate in moderation and remain vigilant at all times.
“Our good people of Iseyin and Itesiwaju Local Government Areas are advised to celebrate Christmas and the New Year with moderation,” he stated. “Residents should be security conscious, avoid unnecessary late-night movements, and desist from travelling at night where possible.”
The Area Commander further called on members of the public to show love, empathy, and generosity to one another, especially the less privileged, stressing that the true essence of Christmas lies in peaceful living and selfless giving.
Addressing the youths and young people in particular, ACP Adegoke issued a strong warning against social vices that tend to escalate during festive periods. He cautioned against drug use and drug abuse, violent conduct, and other unlawful activities capable of breaching peace and public safety.
He also warned against the use of fireworks and knockouts, which he noted often result in injuries, fire outbreaks, panic, and unnecessary security concerns. According to him, such acts not only endanger the users but also pose risks to the general public.
“Youths and young ones are advised to avoid drugs and drug abuse, fireworks, knockouts, violence, conflicts, and any actions capable of causing a breakdown of law and order,” ACP Adegoke stressed.
Reaffirming the commitment of the Nigeria Police Force to maintaining peace and security during the festive season, the Area Commander assured residents that adequate security measures had been put in place across Iseyin and Itesiwaju Local Government Areas to ensure a peaceful celebration.
He called for continued cooperation between the police, other security agencies, community leaders, and residents, noting that security is a collective responsibility.
ACP Adegoke concluded his message by wishing all sons and daughters, residents, security personnel, and peace-loving people of the two local government areas a joyful Christmas celebration and a prosperous New Year in advance.
“Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to all,” he declared.
