By Tope Obembe
The February edition of the Irewolede Local Council Development Area (LCDA) Security and Intelligence Committee Meeting was held on Wednesday, 25 February 2026, at the Council Mini Conference Hall.
The meeting was presided over by the Executive Chairman of Irewolede LCDA, Hon. (Mrs.) Dupe Bakare, who commended the top management team and security operatives across the LCDA for sustaining relative peace within the council area. She praised security agencies for their dedication and collaboration, noting that their efforts have continued to promote safety and stability.
Hon. Bakare particularly applauded security operatives for the successful bush-combing exercise carried out earlier in 2026. She explained that the operation was made possible through synergy and mutual understanding among security agencies and was aimed at strengthening peace and security across farm settlements within the LCDA.
As part of proactive security measures, the Chairman disclosed that herdsmen from the six communities within the LCDA were invited for dialogue to foster mutual understanding between herders and farmers and to prevent conflicts.
In his remarks, the Head of LCDA, Mr. Babatunde Vincent, expressed gratitude to God for the relative peace enjoyed within the council. He also appreciated the support of Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji for the prompt release of security intervention funds to Irewolede LCDA to address security challenges.
He further commended the Executive Chairman for her consistent support for security operatives, noting that the needs of security personnel are currently being compiled for prompt provision by the council.
Also speaking at the meeting, the Oluloro of Iloro Ekiti, Oba James Olugbesoye, praised the Executive Chairman’s proactive leadership and commitment to safeguarding lives and property.
The committee unanimously resolved that hotel operators within Irewolede LCDA should be sensitised on proper guest monitoring procedures to prevent harbouring criminal elements, particularly as the state approaches the election season. Hotel owners were also cautioned against accommodating underage persons.
Furthermore, the meeting clarified that Iloro Ekiti remains peaceful and has never been used for the cultivation of Indian hemp (Apocynum cannabinum), nor has any Boko Haram leader been harboured in the community. This clarification was issued to counter claims allegedly made during a press interview granted by Mr. Afolabi Abiola.
The meeting reaffirmed the council’s commitment to sustaining peace, strengthening security collaboration, and ensuring the safety of all residents.
Those present at the meeting included the Vice Chairman, Hon. Samson Kolawole; Secretary to the Council, Hon. Adebo Adewale; Head of LCDA, Mr. Babatunde Vincent; and Director of Administration, Mr. Olutoyin Oladele.
Security agencies represented included the Nigeria Police Force (NPF), Department of State Services (DSS), Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), Amotekun Corps, Vigilante Group of Nigeria (VGN), Agro-Marshals, Peace Corps, and NTSS.