- Stakeholders warned against jungle justice, fake news, and the spread of unverified information.
- Landlords, hotels, transport operators, and scrap dealers were urged to comply with new security guidelines.
- Security agencies and community leaders agreed to strengthen intelligence gathering and community surveillance.
Stakeholders across Eredo Local Council Development Area (LCDA) have adopted a series of security measures aimed at strengthening community safety, improving intelligence gathering, and preventing criminal activities across the council area.
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Eko Hot Blog reports that the resolutions emerged from an Emergency Security Stakeholders’ Meeting convened by the Alara of Ilara Kingdom, His Royal Majesty, Oba (Dr.) Olufolarin Olukayode Ogunsanwo (JP), Telade IV, at the Alara’s Palace in Ilara-Epe.
The meeting brought together traditional rulers, representatives of security agencies, government officials, community leaders, market leaders, transport unions, youth groups, school administrators, and other critical stakeholders from across Eredo LCDA.
Speaking during the summit, Oba Ogunsanwo emphasized the need for collective action in addressing emerging security challenges and warned residents against spreading unverified information capable of causing panic within communities.
“Security is a collective responsibility; together, we can build a safer and more peaceful Eredo,” the royal father stated.
The monarch expressed concern over the increasing circulation of rumours and false security reports, noting that misinformation often creates unnecessary fear and tension among residents.
“We must learn to verify information before sharing it. False reports can create panic and destabilize communities,” he said.
Participants unanimously condemned jungle justice and urged residents to hand over suspects to security agencies for proper investigation and prosecution.
“When you suspect anyone, hand such person over to security agencies. Do not take laws into your hands,” Oba Ogunsanwo added.
The Commanding Officer of Epe Barracks, Lt. Col. S.T. Enye, also raised concerns over the spread of fake news, describing misinformation as one of the major security challenges confronting communities today.
“One of our major security challenges today is false information. People circulate unverified reports that create panic and unnecessary anxiety among residents,” he said.
Lt. Col. Enye further called on youths to remain vigilant and assist security agencies through intelligence gathering rather than engaging in unlawful actions.
The summit also identified the need for stricter monitoring of landlords, tenants, hotels, and commercial activities within communities. Security officials advised Baales and landlords to properly document new tenants and visitors, while hotel operators were urged to maintain accurate records of all guests lodging in their facilities.
Participants noted that proper documentation would aid security agencies in tracking suspicious movements and responding swiftly to threats.
Another major resolution reached at the meeting was the regulation of commercial motorcycle operations. Stakeholders recommended that commercial motorcycle riders should operate within approved hours and adopt identifiable uniforms to enhance monitoring and security.
The issue of scrap metal dealers, popularly known as scrap pickers, also featured prominently during discussions. Stakeholders expressed concern that the indiscriminate purchase of suspected stolen items by some scrap dealers has encouraged theft and vandalism of public infrastructure.
They warned scrap dealers against buying electrical cables, iron materials, manhole covers, transformer components, and other items whose sources cannot be verified.
Participants stressed that anyone found purchasing stolen property would be regarded as aiding criminal activities and would face appropriate sanctions under the law.
The Officer in Charge of the Forward Operating Base (FOB), Igbooye, Capt. K.S. Afogba, advocated the establishment of community-based intelligence structures and a Civilian Joint Task Force to support security agencies in monitoring forests, waterways, and remote communities.
He also recommended the deployment of modern surveillance tools, including drones, to improve intelligence gathering and enhance security operations across Eredo LCDA.
Representatives from schools, markets, transport unions, youth organizations, vigilante groups, and community associations also contributed to discussions, highlighting the importance of cooperation between residents and security agencies.
At the end of the meeting, stakeholders resolved to strengthen collaboration among security agencies, traditional institutions, community leaders, and residents in order to sustain peace and security throughout Eredo LCDA.
The summit concluded with participants commending the Alara of Ilara for his proactive leadership and commitment to safeguarding lives and property across the council area.
