In a significant effort to tackle growing security challenges in Ila Orangun and its surrounding areas, Total Shield Security Expert, a subsidiary of Orisun Igbomina, held a high-level meeting with local security agencies and key community stakeholders today.
The Chairman of Orisun Igbomina Broadcasting Network, Mr. Ayodele Agboola, opened the meeting with a keynote address, acknowledging the presence of various security representatives. He outlined the primary objective of the gathering: to collaborate on strategies to curb the recent surge in crime within the region. He emphasized the importance of a strong partnership between the community and security agencies, urging all attendees to support efforts aimed at strengthening the local security infrastructure.
Agboola highlighted the inclusion of representatives from the Okada Riders Association and the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW), noting that these groups play a vital role in everyday transportation. He urged them to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity or passengers they encounter, reiterating the importance of “see something, say something.” Agboola also pledged continued financial support for logistical needs to help enhance security operations.
The Owamagbon of Magbo commended the initiative led by Mr. Agboola, praising the effort to bring stakeholders together to address pressing security concerns. He expressed disappointment over the current state of security in Ila Orangun, calling for swift action to apprehend the perpetrators behind recent criminal activities. He offered prayers for the safety and success of the security personnel involved.
Chief Agberi of Ila Orangun echoed the sentiments, thanking Mr. Agboola for his proactive approach. He highlighted the alarming rise in motorcycle thefts, which have tragically resulted in the deaths of four individuals. He urged the police to maintain confidentiality when handling sensitive information to prevent tipping off criminals. Additionally, he called for a temporary ban on firecrackers to avoid confusion during these tense times.
Representatives from the local police force expressed gratitude to Mr. Agboola for organizing the meeting. They acknowledged the logistical challenges they face, such as difficulties in mobilizing officers quickly during emergencies. They assured the community of their commitment to tackling crime but requested increased support and information sharing from the public.
The leader of Amotekun, a regional security outfit, also thanked Mr. Agboola for his continued financial assistance, which has been critical in maintaining their operations. He noted the challenges faced by Amotekun, particularly in logistics, and acknowledged the support from high-ranking local chiefs and the police.
Mr. Babatunde Oyeyemi Smart, a representative of the road transport workers and the Baale of Ayegun in Ifedayo Local Government, lauded the initiative. He criticized the lack of similar efforts from other local leaders and expressed hope that this meeting would serve as a turning point in addressing the security issues plaguing the community.
The NURTW representative, Mr. Ganiyu Folagboye, urged the police to handle all intelligence with utmost confidentiality, as recent killings have left the community on edge. He highlighted the need for enhanced cooperation between transport workers and security agencies.
Mrs. Adekunle Fatima, representing the Oodua People’s Congress (OPC), shared her concerns about the deteriorating security situation and pledged the OPC’s commitment to supporting all efforts aimed at restoring peace. She emphasized the importance of traditional sacrifices and community action in combating crime.
Prince Adeniji Sodiq, representing Agbekoya, and Mr. Jimoh Alawode from the Hunters’ Association, both pledged their support to collaborate with other security bodies in the fight against crime. They called for better inclusion of their groups in security planning, stressing their readiness to assist in tracking down criminal elements.
The Okada Riders Association, led by Adigun Odunayo, expressed appreciation for the efforts of the Amotekun team in identifying and apprehending individuals masquerading as legitimate riders. He called on Mr. Agboola to continue providing financial assistance for security initiatives.
Pastor Ayodele, speaking on behalf of the religious community, thanked Mr. Agboola for his proactive measures and urged residents to remain vigilant. He encouraged neighbors to look out for one another and promptly report suspicious activities.
In his closing remarks, Mr. Agboola expressed gratitude to all attendees for their valuable contributions. He shared his personal experiences with recent security challenges and reiterated his belief in community policing as a crucial strategy for addressing the issues at hand. Agboola announced his commitment to regularly fund Amotekun’s operations and proposed the creation of a dedicated platform for stakeholders to collaborate on security matters. He also issued a directive for all Okada riders to register their motorcycles with valid plate numbers by December 15, warning that unregistered vehicles would be impounded.
To incentivize cooperation, Mr. Agboola offered a cash reward of ₦10,000 for any credible information leading to the arrest of criminals. He also assured the public of his continued support for all security efforts aimed at making Ila Orangun a safer place.
The Orangun of Ila, in his closing remarks, praised Mr. Agboola’s dedication to improving local security and pledged the royal family’s support for the ongoing efforts. He prayed for the safety of all security personnel and expressed hope for a swift resolution to the current challenges.
The meeting concluded with a renewed sense of unity among stakeholders, all of whom vowed to work together to restore peace and safety to Ila Orangun and its environs.
