GEOSPASTIAL ASSESSMENT OF DISTRIBUTION OF POLICE STATION IN IBADAN NORTH WEST, IBADAN OYO STATE

ABSTRACT This study presents a geospatial assessment of the distribution of police stations in Ibadan North West Local Government Area, Oyo State, Nigeria. Using Geographic Information System (GIS) tools, the spatial distribution of existing police stations was mapped and analyzed to evaluate accessibility, coverage, and service gaps. Data were sourced from satellite imagery, GPS coordinates, population density maps, and administrative records. the findings revealed that police stations are unevenly distributed, with a higher concentration in central urban areas, while peripheral and high-population-density areas remain underserved. Proximity analysis showed that several neighborhoods lie outside the optimal service radius for effective police coverage, resulting in security and response-time challenges. The results show that Ibadan North West has only five police stations, which are unevenly distributed across the LGA. This distribution appears scattered and does not align with the spatial needs of the growing population, estimated to have increased significantly since the 2006 census. When compared with neighboring LGAs like Ibadan North, which has twelve police stations, the disparity highlights a gap in resource allocation. The findings suggest that many high-density residential areas may be underserved, potentially leading to delayed response times and reduced policing efficiency. It is concluded that the current distribution is inadequate for effective policing, and the study recommends the strategic siting of new police stations using geospatial data. This would ensure improved coverage, quicker response to incidents, and better security outcomes for residents of Ibadan North West.