By Daniel Abe
The Executive Chairperson of Irewolede Local Council Development Area (LCDA), Hon. (Mrs.) Dupe Bakare, has reaffirmed her administration’s commitment to strengthening security across the council area, urging security agencies to intensify efforts in combating crime and protecting lives and property.
Bakare made the call on Wednesday while presiding over the July edition of the LCDA’s Security and Intelligence Meeting held at the Conference Hall of the Council Secretariat.
The meeting was attended by the Vice Chairman, Hon. Samson Kolawole; the Secretary to the LCDA, Hon. Adewale Adebo; the Head of Council Administration, Mr. Vincent Babatunde; the Director of Administration, Mr. Oladele Olutoyin; as well as heads and representatives of the Nigeria Police Force, National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Amotekun Corps, the Vigilante Group, Nigeria Hunters and Agro Marshals Corps.
In her address, the council boss commended the various security agencies for their dedication and professionalism in maintaining peace and ensuring the safety of residents, particularly during the recent governorship election. She also applauded the Community Development Unions (CDU) for their continued partnership in promoting security within the LCDA.
Describing security as a collective responsibility, Bakare directed all security agencies to intensify surveillance and ensure the prompt arrest and prosecution of individuals involved in criminal and other unlawful activities. She also stressed the need for effective monitoring of scavengers operating within the council area to identify those using the occupation as a cover for criminal acts.
The chairperson assured security agencies of the council’s continued support through the provision of improved logistics to enhance their operational efficiency.
Also speaking at the meeting, the Secretary to the LCDA, Hon. Adewale Adebo, called for increased surveillance of schools during the long vacation, urging security agencies to strengthen intelligence gathering among students throughout the holiday period as part of measures to prevent youth-related crimes and other security challenges.
Heads of the various security agencies presented reports on their activities during the month under review, highlighting achievements and emerging security concerns. They expressed appreciation to the council leadership for its unwavering support and commitment to improving security across the LCDA.
In his remarks, the Area Commander of the NDLEA, ACN Daniel Akinyemi, emphasized the importance of sustained collaboration among security agencies to effectively tackle crime. He also advocated intensified public enlightenment campaigns on the dangers of illicit drug abuse, describing community awareness as a vital tool in crime prevention.
The meeting ended with a renewed commitment by the council and security stakeholders to deepen collaboration and sustain proactive measures aimed at ensuring a safer and more secure environment for residents of Irewolede LCDA.