The Executive Chairmen of Ikorodu Division convened a crucial security stakeholders’ meeting on July 24, 2024, to address mounting concerns over potential protests.
The Lagos Commissioner of Police, Mr. Adegoke Fayoade attended the session at Ikorodu Ultra-Modern Town Hall, which was organized to emphasize the importance of lawful demonstrations and to avert any possible unrest in the community.
The meeting brought together the six chairmen from Ikorodu Division, each representing key local councils: Bldr. Olusesan Daini of Igbogbo Baiyeku LCDA; Hon. Wasiu Adeshina of Ikorodu LGA; Hon. Motunrayo Gbadebo of Ijede LCDA; Bldr. Adeola Banjo of Ikorodu North LCDA; Hon. Sulaimon Kazeem Olarewaju of Ikorodu West LCDA; and Hon. Wasiu Adekunle Agoro of Imota LCDA.
The engagement also saw the participation of prominent traditional leaders, adding a layer of cultural authority to the proceedings.
HRM Oba Kabiru Adewale Shotobi, the Ayangbure of Ikorodu; HRM Oba Semiudeen Orimadegun Kasali, the Adeboruwa of Igbogbo Kingdom; and HRM Oba Mudashiru Bakare Agoro, the Ranodu of Imota, were in attendance.
Their involvement was pivotal in lending credibility and gravity to the discussions about maintaining peace.
Distinguished guests included Hon. Lanre Balogun, former Commissioner for Commerce; Abiodun Ogunleye, former Deputy Governor of Lagos State; Alhaji Gafar; Mr. Segun Ogunlewe; Alhaji Jamiu Adio Saka; Deputy Commissioner of Police Fatai Tijani; Mr. Joseph Jaiyeoba; and Ibrahim Adio, Chairman of NYCN Lagos State Chapter.
The presence of these key figures, along with representatives from the NURTW Ikorodu Chapter and both the Arewa and Igbo societies, highlighted the broad support for a peaceful resolution to the issues at hand.
Bldr. Sesan Daini, the council chairman of Igbogbo Baiyeku LCDA, kicked off the program by emphasizing the need for unity and collaboration among the community’s youth and residents.
He stressed the importance of working together to forge a positive future, setting the tone for the discussions that followed.
The Lagos State Commissioner of Police Adegoke Fayoade outlined the purpose of his visit: to promote peace and address concerns about the rumoured protests.
He stressed the importance of adhering to legal frameworks for protests and called on the community to support local security measures.
Fayoade praised the efforts of security groups, including the Lagos Neighbourhood Safety Corps (LNSC), Ikorodu Division Peace Initiative (IDPL), Onyabo, and the Local Security Joint Task Force (JTF), for their role in maintaining order and ensuring safety.
The Commissioner urged residents to be vigilant and report any suspicious activities immediately.
He highlighted the collective responsibility of the community in safeguarding peace and security. “We must collaborate to eliminate any disturbances to our peace. If you see something illegal, report it promptly,” Fayoade advised.
Comr. Ibrahim Adio, Chairman of NYCN Lagos State Chapter, reaffirmed that the youth are not involved in any potential protests.
He announced plans to hold a press conference aimed at educating young people on the dangers of violence and the benefits of peaceful advocacy.
Alhaja Mutiat Ojulari, representing the Market Men and Women Ikorodu Branch, assured attendees that the market community would not engage in any protests.
She committed to informing market members and their families to refrain from violence, ensuring that the business community remains focused on maintaining peace.
Abdulrasheed Oluwadaisi of the NURTW Ikorodu branch similarly assured that the transportation sector, under the leadership of Alhaji Sego, would not participate in any protests.
He emphasized that all transport workers had been instructed to avoid involvement in such activities.
Representatives from the Arewa and Igbo societies also distanced themselves from the proposed protests, reiterating their dedication to the progress and development of Ikorodu Division.
Their stance further reinforced the community’s commitment to peace and stability.
Abiodun Ogunleye, former Deputy Governor of Lagos State, commended the Ikorodu chairmen for their role in uniting the community and facilitating a constructive dialogue with the Commissioner of Police.
He highlighted the importance of distinguishing between peaceful and violent protests, reinforcing the need for careful management of public demonstrations.
Traditional leaders HRM Oba Semiudeen Orimadegun Kasali of Igbogbo and HRM Oba Mudashiru Ajibade Bakare Agoro of Imota both emphasized the necessity of avoiding violence.
Oba Kasali urged the Commissioner to consider the concerns and suggestions put forth by the community, while Oba Agoro called for non-violent resolutions, stating, “Violence is not the solution”
In closing, HRM Oba Adewale Kabiru Shotobi, the Ayangbure of Ikorodu Kingdom, expressed gratitude to all participants for their contributions.
He encouraged attendees to return to their communities and disseminate the message of Ikorodu’s commitment to peace.
He also appealed to the police and other security forces for patience, emphasizing that gradual and steady progress would lead to a peaceful resolution.
The event concluded with a closing prayer led by Sheikh Imam Oloworibi, Chief Imam of Ikorodu Division.
INN-HOUSE☆ 