Kunle Adelabu
The two council Chairmen in Ikorodu Division – Builder Sesan Daini, Chairman, Igbogbo/Bayeku and Hon. Motunrayo Gbadebo – Alogba, Chairman, Ijede Local Council Development Areas (LCDAs), whose councils are affected by the recent kidnapping cases in lkorodu division, have assured residents in their domains that government is in firm control of the security situation.
The Council bosses of the riverine communities also stated that the insecurity situation is being tackled with the intervention of the Lagos State Government and the involvement of the Nigerian Army, Nigeria Police Force, our Local Joint Task Force, and other security agencies.
In a joint statement at the weekend, the two council helmsmen reacted to the kidnapping incident that occurred at Igbe Alagemo last Wednesday, which we gathered that the kidnappers have demanded ransom.
Two vigilantes were reportedly killed, while the community tried to rescue the kidnapped victims.
There have been serious apprehensions among residents of Igbe Alagemo where the incidents occurred and other Igbe communities – Igbe Laara, Igbe Oloja and Igbe Ogunro among other communities within the Igbogbo/Bayeku and Ijede LCDAs.
Four residents have, however, been kidnapped in the axis in the last three months.
“In response to the growing concerns over security in Igbogbo/Baiyeku LCDA and Ijede LCDA, we, hereby, wish to issue a joint statement assuring residents that the situation is under control and effectively addressed by the State and Local Councils concerned with all security agencies”, Council bosses assured.
“We wish to reiterate that we are committed to ensuring the safety and the well-being of the residents within their respective Local Council Development Areas. We have established collaborative efforts with the State Government, the Nigerian Army, Nigeria Police Force, our Local Joint Task Force, and other security agencies to tackle the prevailing security challenges.
“Our communities are our top priority, and we are determined to foster an environment where residents feel safe and secure.
“We understand the concerns of our residents, and we want to assure everyone that we are on top of the situation. Collaboration is key, and we are leveraging the support of the state government and security agencies to implement robust security measures”, they said while emphasising their commitments to safety of lives and properties in their councils.
The Chairmen called on the residents to be vigilant and take happenings around them seriously and report any suspicious event to the appropriate authorities.
“Community involvement in maintaining a secure environment is very important, hence, we appeal to residents to be vigilant and report any suspicious activities promptly. We urge our community members to speak out if they notice any unusual movement or activities within their neighborhoods. Your cooperation is crucial in helping us combat security challenges effectively”, they charged.
“This joint statement reflects our commitment to the safety and security of the residents in Igbogbo/Baiyeku LCDA and Ijede LCDA. We encourage open communication and collaboration between the local communities and the authorities to create a safer living environment for all.
“Thank you for your cooperation”.