IBLCDA Security Summit: Aroyewun Rallies Stakeholders Against Crime, Warns Land Grabbers

IBLCDA Security Summit: Aroyewun Rallies Stakeholders Against Crime, Warns Land Grabbers

LAGOS — The Executive Chairman of Igbogbo/Baiyeku Local Council Development Area (IBLCDA), Omo'ba Hammed Olalekan Aroyewun, has called for stronger collaboration among security agencies, traditional institutions, community leaders and residents to tackle crime and emerging security threats within the council area.

Aroyewun made the call on Thursday during the maiden edition of the IBLCDA Security Summit held at the Adeboruwa Palace, Igbogbo, with the theme, "Strengthening Security Operations Towards Curbing Security Threats and Misinformation."

The summit attracted representatives of the Nigeria Police Force, the Nigeria Immigration Service, anti-drug advocacy groups, traditional rulers, religious leaders, Community Development Committee officials, market associations, youth groups and other stakeholders who deliberated on practical approaches to improving security and public vigilance across the LCDA.

Speaking at the event, Aroyewun stressed that security should not be left solely to security agencies, urging residents, landlords and community leaders to play active roles in safeguarding their communities.

He disclosed that his administration plans to establish a dedicated security support base within the LCDA to enhance local security infrastructure and provide greater operational support to security agencies.

The council boss also issued a stern warning against land grabbing and other forms of unlawful encroachment, assuring residents that the council would continue to deploy all lawful measures to protect lives, property and community peace.

On revenue collection, Aroyewun distanced the council from reports of unauthorized midnight collections allegedly being carried out in some communities. He urged residents to report any individual or group operating illegally under the guise of the council authority.

The chairman further expressed concern over the growing spread of misinformation and fake news, describing it as a major threat capable of creating panic, disrupting security operations and eroding public trust.

According to him, accurate information remains critical to effective security management, while false reports often generate unnecessary fear and confusion within communities.

Aroyewun also challenged landlords and property owners to conduct proper tenant profiling and closely monitor activities within their premises to prevent criminal elements from using residential properties as safe havens.

The summit featured presentations from security and civil society stakeholders on various aspects of community safety and crime prevention.

Representing the Divisional Police Officer of Ikorodu Division, CSP Akinola Clement, SP Samuel Susan highlighted prevailing security concerns and underscored the importance of sustained collaboration between residents and law enforcement agencies.

Assistant Superintendent of Immigration, ASI Mistura Afolashade Olowu, emphasized the need for proper resident identification and documentation, noting that community vigilance remains a key component of modern security management.

Also speaking, the Coordinator of Social Watch Anti-Drug Abuse Advocacy (SWADAA), Comrade Adegoke Bamidele, warned that substance abuse remains a major driver of criminal activities. He urged residents to support anti-drug initiatives, noting that communities that tolerate drug abuse often experience increased incidents of violence, theft and social disorder.

In his remarks, the Adeboruwa of Igbogbo Kingdom, Oba Semiudeen Orimadegun Kasali, commended the proactive efforts of the security agencies and the LCDA administration in addressing security concerns. The monarch called on residents to cooperate with security operatives and embrace peaceful coexistence for the collective protection of lives and property.

At the end of the summit, stakeholders unanimously agreed on the need for stronger intelligence sharing, improved community vigilance, responsible dissemination of information and deeper collaboration between residents and security agencies.

The council also announced that the Security Summit would become a periodic platform for reviewing security challenges, strengthening partnerships and developing practical solutions to emerging threats, as stakeholders pledged their commitment to building a safer and more resilient Igbogbo/Baiyeku community.