The Chairman of Ifelodun Local Council Development Area (LCDA), Lagos State, Olufemi Akanbi Okeowo, has reaffirmed that the periodic “show of force” involving all security agencies in the council area is designed to keep operatives alert, combat-ready, and proactive, while underscoring his administration’s unwavering commitment to sustaining peace and security amid growing insecurity across the country.
Speaking with Lagos Focus News shortly after a strategic meeting with members of the Ifelodun Security Corps (ISC), the council chairman said the gathering was part of ongoing efforts to strengthen local security architecture and prepare security operatives against any potential threats.
According to Okeowo, the council regularly organizes security “show of force” exercises involving local security outfits and other agencies, including the Nigerian Army, to deter criminal activities and reassure residents of their safety.
“Occasionally, we organize a show of force in Ifelodun LCDA to stave off insecurity in our area. The exercise involves all security forces, including the Nigerian Army and the police. We are not waiting for any security crisis before acting. We believe in staying prepared and keeping all security outfits on alert,” he said.
The chairman acknowledged the prevailing security challenges in parts of the country but maintained that Ifelodun LCDA has remained relatively peaceful due to proactive measures and constant intelligence gathering.
He stressed the need for peaceful coexistence among Nigerians, noting that division along ethnic lines would be detrimental to national unity and development.
Okeowo also commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for what he described as efforts towards national development and stability since assuming office.
“The President is doing very well for Nigeria, and we do not want anyone to truncate the progress being made. As a government at the grassroots, our duty is to secure lives and property and ensure a peaceful environment where businesses and economic activities can thrive,” he stated.
The chairman further disclosed that local government chairmen under the umbrella of Conference 57 regularly meet and recently met with the Lagos State Government and security agencies to discuss security-related matters and strengthen grassroots safety strategies.
Assessing the security situation in Ifelodun LCDA since the inception of his administration, Okeowo rated the area above 90 percent in terms of safety and stability.
“Gone are the days when residents were afraid to return home at night or had to seek information about safe routes before moving around. We are determined not to allow such situations to return to our community,” he said.
Also speaking, the Commandant of the Ifelodun Security Corps (ISC), Mayowa Adesoko, popularly known as “Unbreakable,” said the security outfit has intensified surveillance and monitoring across the LCDA following directives from the Council Chairman.
Adesoko stated that the council chairman established the ISC as a grassroots security structure to complement conventional security agencies in addressing criminal activities, cultism, and street violence within the area.
“We have been working to ensure peace in Ifelodun LCDA. We confront criminal elements, including cultists and area boys, and hand over suspects to the police whenever arrests are made,” he said.
He explained that the recent meeting with security personnel was primarily an alert and preparedness session aimed at ensuring a swift response to any security threats.
“It was a meeting for alertness and vigilance. The chairman directed us to closely monitor the environment, watch out for suspicious movements, and respond promptly whenever called upon,” he stated.
The ISC commandant recalled the role played by local security operatives during the EndSARS period, noting that they collaborated with police authorities in arresting suspected troublemakers and restoring calm in the area.
According to him, local security personnel possess extensive knowledge of the communities, including flashpoints and hideouts used by criminal elements.
“We know the nooks and crannies of this local government because we were born and raised here. Some criminal elements have been arrested, while others who fled to neighbouring areas are still being tracked,” he added.
Adesoko assured residents that Ifelodun LCDA remains peaceful, while urging members of the public to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities to security agencies.
“We must all be vigilant. Whether in Okada, Keke Marwa, or anywhere else, if you see something, say something,” he advised.
He further disclosed that security stakeholders recently held meetings to deliberate on possible restrictions regarding the operational hours of commercial motorcycles and tricycles as part of broader efforts to strengthen security within the LCDA.
However, he clarified that only the council chairman has the authority to officially announce such measures if adopted.
- Photo Credit: Information Dept. Ifelodun LCDA
