Kunle Adelabu
Disturbed by the alarming rate of insecurity especially kidnapping cases in the last two years, as being experienced in and around Igbe communities of Igbogbo/Bayeku and Ijede Local Council Development Areas (LCDAs) of Ikorodu Division, Lagos State, Southwest, Nigeria, Ikorodu Heroes Association (I-heroes), has called for collaboration among the stakeholders and security agencies.
I-heroes, which is a registered and non-profit organization that is committed to the socio-economic development of Ikorodu Division as a whole and indeed Lagos State, said that it has observed and concluded that there would be no headway on dealing with the kidnapping cases if there is no synergy among the security agencies.
Recall that two residents of Igbe Alagemo were kidnapped last week and the kidnapers have made a demand of N20milion for their release.
In a release by the association titled, “The Spate of Insecurity in Ikorodu Division: A Call for Synergy Among Security Outfits”, signed by its President, Olanshile Majolagbe , condemned the incessant cases of kidnapping and warned that if the incidents are not checked, the .unfortunate will continue to threaten social and economic lives of the people.
“Considering the socio-economic development of Ikorodu Division, a group of young and vibrant indigenes of the division named “I-Heroes” are issuing a clarion call to all individuals and organizations saddled with providing security in Ikorodu Division.
“As we observe the current security challenges facing the community, particularly, the kidnappings in Igbe community within Igbogbo LCDA, it is clear that achieving a safe and secure environment requires collective action and commitment.
“Therefore, we are calling upon all concerned parties —the lawfully constituted authorities, including political leaders, the traditional institutions, the Police, the NDLEA, Civil Defence, and other relevant agencies — to be deliberate and intentional about safeguarding the lives and property of all residents,” the statement said.
Emphasising the need for immediate action against the terror, the association also stated that seven residents have been victims of the dare – devil kidnappers in the last two years and over N50million paid as ransom to secure kidnapped residents.
“The rate of kidnappings in Igbe community is alarming; residents now live in palpable fear. There are concerns that these kidnappings, if not nipped early, may cascade to other communities within Ikorodu Division.
“Between the year 2023, when the first incident was recorded and now, seven persons have been kidnapped. A sum of over 50 million naira has been paid as ransom and five innocent lives lost in the process.
“There are concerns that efforts of the State, Local government authorities and security agencies are not yielding expected results. This is a call for an urgent need to rejig the security architecture within Ikorodu Division.
“While we commend the efforts made by notable personalities, including the local government chairmen, the Obas, the Nigeria Police Force, the Onyabo security network, the Lagos Neighbourhood Safety Corps, the NDLEA, Civil Defence, and the Odofin of Ikorodu, High Chief Adewunmi Ogunsanya, in creating the Ikorodu Security Network (Idagiri Ekun), we have observed that despite significant funding, the security outcomes have not matched expectations. This does not suggest that the agencies are not doing their best, but rather, the challenge lies in the lack of proper coordination and cooperation among these agencies.”
I – Heroes called for greater cooperation among security outfits in ensuring a secured environment.
“Therefore, we are calling for greater synergy among the security outfits and leadership structures within Ikorodu Division. It is essential that all security agencies join forces to ensure a safer and more secure environment for our communities. This includes all security outfits such as: Nigeria Police Force, Nigerian Army, Nigerian Navy, Nigerian Air Force, Department of State Services (DSS), National Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Vigilante Groups (Onyabo, etc.), Idagiri Ekun and Neighborhood Watch Groups
“The benefit of proper coordination will improve response time, enhance specialized capabilities and encourage community involvement. By combining efforts, agencies can create a safer and more secure environment for all, promoting efficiency, coordination, and community engagement. Let us work together to ensure a safer, more secure, and prosperous Ikorodu Division.
“Together, We Can Achieve Greater Security for All,” charged the I– Heroes.
