Brigadier General Nsikak J. Edet, the New 9 Brigade Nigerian Army Commander, visited the palace of the Ayangbure Of Ikorodu Kingdom, HRM, Oba Kabiru Adewale Shotobi, for a courtesy visit on the 19th of June 2023.
The Brigadier General, whose transfer was effected in May 2023 said the purpose of his visit was to acquaint himself with the traditional institution of the waterbed region in Lagos State.
The King, who was also in the company of HRM, Oba Adewale Mustapha Abdul, and HRM, Oba Abayomi Nelson Ogunlari, Olowu of Owu-Ikosi, warmly received the new Brigadier.
Introduced to the almost 80 communities in Ikorodu Kingdom, Brigadier Edet acquainted him with the Baales, Chiefs and other traditional heads in the region.
To further promote effective security, Brigadier Edet was introduced to the Ikorodu Division Peace Initiative (IDPIL), assimilating how the local security task force unit helps law enforcement in bringing peace to the communities across the division
Addressing the Brigadier commander in his welcome speech, Mr Rotimi Erogbogbo, Chairman of Ikorodu Oga Development Association (IKODASS), illustrated to General Edet that Ikorodu is a city which has come of age, accommodating many people that must be handled with high sense of security.
Commending the military command post at Odogunyan for playing an active role in always restoring peace during times of sudden unrest, Mr Erogbogbo told Brigadier Edet to feel at home, adding that he’ll surely enjoy the cooperation of the inhabitants of the waterbed region.
Brigadier General Edet, in his speech, explained that before his transfer to Lagos, he was formerly the commander of the 12th brigade in Lokoja.
Detailing that his visit to Ikorodu is to embrace the royal father, just like a son would do, he acknowledged the paramount ruler, Oba Kabiru Adewale Shotobi, for his leadership style that solidifies community safety.
Explaining further, he said, “You will hardly condone the issue of crimes in a region, as long as the traditional institution works firmly together in unity and harmony with all security outfits”.
“I also want to use this medium to implore Kabiesi to continuously extend his warm embrace towards my soldiers whenever they are carrying out their duties”.
“If there is any problem that arises between my soldiers and residents in the community, it should be handled with wisdom and also I’ll be always accessible to rectify such circumstances” Brigadier asserted.
Underscoring the importance of community policing, Brigadier Edet gave kudos to the Ikorodu Division Peace Initiative, explaining how their role has also contributed to bringing peace to the neighbourhoods.
He further advises community policing outfits to synergy more with the soldiers to ensure peace is held in high esteem across the division.
Overseeing Leader of Ikorodu Division Peace Initiative (IDPIL) Chief Olarewaju Olabinjo, in his remarks, explained that Ikorodu is a safe region, which is easy to govern.
Recounting how 3 miscreants in Ibeshe axis who shot a trooper had been recently apprehended, Chief Olarewaju noted that the synergy between the military force and community police officers would always be cordial.
The paramount ruler of Ikorodu kingdom, Oba Kabiru Adewale Shotobi, in his remarks, said it is a thing of joy that the brigadier commander was transferred to Ikorodu in May and came to the palace in June for a courtesy visit.
“Though it’s a normal routine, we’re happy that he’s here to greet us, and acquaint himself with the tradition that looks after the cantonment”.
“The purpose of this visit is also to establish a mutual understanding between the military and community”.
“Brigadier General Edet has been posted to our domain so we have to look after him, it also means we will arrange a date to also reciprocate this stay,” Oba Shotobi said.
The King prayed for the Brigadier General for subsequent promotion to higher ranks after his effective discharge of duties within the waterbed region, urging him to feel at home in Lagos State.
“As you protect us in Ikorodu, God will always protect you in return”.
“Don’t hesitate to let me know whenever something comes up that makes you feel at odds, we’re swift in taking considerable measures to provide solutions” Oba Shotobi added.
The King concluded his speech by commending the Nigerian Military for embracing democracy, and the new political dispensation.
General Edet presented an honorary medal to the paramount ruler at the end of the program.
Also in attendance was Colonel, M.I Abdulrahman, Major A Sanusi, Major A.A Nasir, Lt. M Hussain, Mr Taiwo Salami, Dr Saheed Ibikunle and many others.
Brigadier General Nsikak J. Edet took over the mantle of leadership of the 9 Brigade Nigerian Army Ikeja from his predecessor Brig. Gen. Isangubong E. Akpaumontia who proceeded to Lokoja, Kogi State to assume duty at the Nigerian Army 12 Brigade, Lokoja.
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