On Thursday, December 19, 2024, His Royal Majesty Oba Dr. Olukayode Olufolarin Ogunsanwo, the Alara of Ilara Kingdom, convened two pivotal meetings aimed at tackling pressing challenges in Epe and its environs.
The monarch engaged with representatives from Ikeja Electric (IE) and the new Unit Commander of the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) in Epe, focusing on electricity infrastructure vandalism and road safety measures.
During his discussion with Ikeja Electric, Oba Ogunsanwo expressed deep concern over the growing menace of vandalism targeting power infrastructure, which has left several communities in darkness.
“Since August, we’ve documented nine incidents of vandalism across Epe, Eredo, and Ikosi-Ejinrin Local Council Development Areas,” the monarch stated.
“This criminal activity has hindered progress in our communities, and the perpetrators must be held accountable.”
To address this issue, Oba Ogunsanwo announced the formation of a collaborative task force, including representatives from Ikeja Electric, community leaders, and religious authorities.
This group will focus on public sensitization about the consequences of vandalism and foster civic responsibility.
Engineer Emmanuel Iberuche, the Business Manager for Ikeja Electric, shed light on the scale of the problem.
“Over the past four years, the number of vandalism cases has grown from 138 to 173 annually.
Just last month, 95 distribution transformers were vandalized,” he revealed.
He added that IE has launched a whistleblowing initiative and is developing an online portal to streamline the process of meter installations.
The monarch also highlighted consumer grievances, particularly issues of overbilling and the unavailability of prepaid meters.
“To address these challenges, I have offered my palace as a support hub for Ikeja Electric to resolve residents’ concerns promptly,” Oba Ogunsanwo announced.
The dialogue also touched on the Epe-Ajah-Omotosho power project, which the monarch described as a crucial solution to the region’s energy challenges.
“While this project requires time, it remains a priority, and progress is ongoing,” he assured.
In a subsequent meeting with the newly assigned FRSC Unit Commander for Epe, Mrs. E.O. Adewoye, the focus shifted to road safety and traffic management.
Oba Ogunsanwo pinpointed accident-prone areas, such as Aiyetoro, urging the commander to prioritize the installation of speed breakers and traffic signs in these locations.
“The recurring accidents at these black spots are alarming. Immediate interventions, such as speed control measures, are crucial,” he emphasized.
The monarch also expressed concern over articulated vehicles, particularly fuel tankers, being dangerously parked along Mojoda Road.
“The presence of these tankers on public roads, especially during the festive season, poses a significant threat. They must be relocated to designated parking areas to avert potential disasters,” he cautioned.
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In her response, Commander Adewoye pledged to enhance road safety in the region. “We will assess these high-risk areas and collaborate with local stakeholders to implement necessary measures. Ensuring safer roads in Epe is a top priority,” she affirmed.
The day’s engagements highlighted Oba Ogunsanwo’s commitment to addressing key developmental challenges in Epe.
“Reliable power supply and road safety are critical to our community’s growth and well-being. I anticipate prompt and effective responses from all stakeholders involved,”the monarch concluded.
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