Dare Babalola
The Oyo State Police Command has announced the deployment of extensive security arrangements across the state ahead of the 2026 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) organised by the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB).
The measure, approved by the Commissioner of Police, is aimed at ensuring a safe, orderly, and seamless conduct of the examination in all designated Computer-Based Test (CBT) centres within the state.
In a statement issued on Thursday by the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Ayanlade Olayinka, the Command said security coverage had already been strengthened at all examination centres across Oyo State.
“In line with this directive, adequate security coverage has been emplaced at all Computer-Based Test (CBT) centres across Oyo State to ensure a safe, orderly, and hitch-free examination process for all candidates,” the statement read.
The Command further disclosed that proactive patrols and visibility policing would be intensified across major highways, communities, and strategic locations, particularly to ensure the safe movement of candidates and other road users during the examination period.
The statement added that officers on duty have been instructed to maintain professionalism while carrying out stop-and-search operations.
“The Commissioner of Police has further mandated enhanced visibility policing across major roads, communities, and critical points within the State. Officers on stop-and-search duties have been specifically directed to be proactive, professional, and courteous while ensuring that candidates and other commuters traveling for the examination reach their destinations safely and without undue hindrance,” it stated.
To ensure effective coordination, the Command directed all Area Commanders, Divisional Police Officers (DPOs), and supervisory personnel to take full responsibility for security within their respective jurisdictions.
“Additionally, all Area Commanders, Divisional Police Officers (DPOs), and supervisory officers have been charged to take full responsibility within their respective jurisdictions and ensure that no untoward incidents are recorded before, during, or after the examination period,” the statement noted.
Reassuring the public, the Command emphasised its commitment to safeguarding lives and property throughout the examination exercise and urged residents to cooperate with security agencies by providing useful intelligence where necessary.
The Command also extended goodwill to candidates sitting for the examination, encouraging them to remain law-abiding and focused.
The statement continued, “The Command reassures members of the public, particularly candidates, parents, and guardians, of its unwavering commitment to the protection of lives and property. The Command also calls for the cooperation of all residents in providing timely and credible information that could assist security agencies in maintaining peace and order.
“The Oyo State Police Command wishes all candidates success in their examinations and urges them to remain law-abiding throughout the exercise.”
For emergencies, the Command advised members of the public to contact the Oyo State Call Response Centre on 615 or reach the Police Command Control Room via 08081768614 and 07055495413.
