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By Lukman Olabiyi
Residents of Igbe-Alagemo in the Igbogbo Local Council Development Area (LCDA) of Ikorodu, have appealed to Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu for urgent intervention, following a surge in kidnappings and killings within the community.
The residents staged a protest at the LCDA Secretariat and the palace of the Igbogbo monarch to express their concern over the escalating violence and insecurity in the area.
Mr. Obafemi Onikoro, Chairman of the community, explained that the protest was triggered by the alarming frequency of kidnappings and murders in Igbe-Alagemo.
He revealed that many residents have fled their homes out of fear for their safety, with the most recent kidnapping incident marking the seventh in just four months. Despite efforts by the community’s leadership to implement grassroots surveillance, the situation has not improved.
“Kidnappers have taken over Igbe-Alagemo. They abduct our members daily, demanding ransoms in the millions. Tragically, three of our residents were killed during these incidents. Some of the victims are here with us today. Our members are fleeing their homes, businesses are suffering, and we no longer feel safe. Our children can’t go to school, and we no longer sleep with peace of mind. We are calling on Governor Sanwo-Olu to urgently provide security and restore safety to our community”, Onikoro said.
Sesan Daini, Executive Chairman of the Igbogbo LCDA, expressed deep concern about the situation.
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He assured the residents that the Lagos State government is actively addressing the issue, with the Joint Security Task Force (JTF) working at the grassroots level to combat the rising insecurity in the area.
He emphasized that the government is committed to providing security for its citizens.
“We are aware of the situation in Igbe-Alagemo, and we are doing everything possible to resolve it. Governor Sanwo-Olu is fully engaged and is on top of the situation. I will personally meet with community members to discuss how we can work together to tackle this crisis,” Daini stated.
Chief Tajudeen Alade, who spoke for Oba of Igbogbo, urged the community to continue their efforts to secure their area in partnership with the government.
He praised the residents for their peaceful protest and assured them that their concerns would be conveyed to the governor.
“We appreciate your courage and maturity in addressing this issue through a peaceful protest. We will send your report to Governor Sanwo-Olu and continue to appeal for calm as we work together to resolve this crisis,” Chief Alade said.
Several victims of the kidnappings, including Mr. Dare Onipede and Mrs. Bidemi Oyegbemi, also spoke during the protest, recounting their harrowing experiences.
