By Emmanuel Daniji

The Chairman of Igbogbo/Baiyeku Local Council Development Area (LCDA), Omo’ba Hammed Olalekan Aroyewun, has vowed to take firm action against cultism, violence and other criminal activities in Baiyeku, assuring residents that his administration will not protect anyone found to be involved in crime.

Aroyewun gave the assurance on Friday, October 23, 2026, during a meeting with the Baale of Baiyeku, Chief Saheed Ajibode, and other community stakeholders following recent violent incidents that claimed lives and raised concerns about security in the area.

The council chairman said protecting lives and property remained a priority, stressing that residents must be able to go about their daily activities without fear, intimidation or threats to their safety.

He warned that anyone involved in criminal activities, including those who sponsor or support violence, would be handed over to the appropriate security agencies for investigation and possible prosecution, regardless of their social status, political affiliation or personal connections.

Aroyewun, who was accompanied by the Ward C3 Councillor, Hon. (Princess) Saidat Adeoba Odeyemi; the Secretary to the Local Government, Alhaji Qudus Oduntan; and the Chief of Staff, Hon. Wasiu Olowu, also expressed sympathy with families who lost loved ones in the recent violence.

He described the incidents as unacceptable and called for collective action to prevent further loss of lives.

The chairman urged parents and guardians to pay closer attention to the activities and associations of their children, particularly young people who may be exposed to cultism and other forms of criminal behaviour. He also warned families and friends against shielding offenders, noting that such actions could encourage further violence and endanger innocent residents.

He called on residents to support security agencies by reporting suspicious movements, threats and suspected cult-related activities to the police and other relevant authorities.

According to him, lasting peace in Baiyeku would require cooperation among the council, traditional institutions, security agencies, parents, youth groups and the wider community.

During the meeting, the Baale of Baiyeku, Chief Saheed Ajibode, thanked Aroyewun for visiting the community at a time of concern over security. He said the visit demonstrated the council’s interest in the welfare of residents and its willingness to work with traditional leaders to address the situation.

Other stakeholders also pledged to spread the message of peace and encourage residents to provide credible information that could assist law enforcement agencies in preventing further violence.

A major issue raised during the engagement was the need to complete the police station currently under construction in Baiyeku.

Community representatives said the facility would help strengthen police presence, improve response to security incidents and discourage criminal activities once it becomes operational.

In response, Aroyewun approved the speedy completion of the project, assuring stakeholders that steps would be taken to ensure the facility is delivered without unnecessary delay.

The commitment was welcomed as a practical step towards improving security infrastructure in the community, where residents have called for stronger measures to protect lives and property.

The chairman reiterated his administration’s readiness to work with the police, traditional rulers and other stakeholders to address security challenges. He urged residents to remain vigilant and cooperate with security personnel while continuing their lawful activities.

Aroyewun’s meeting with Baiyeku’s traditional leadership and community representatives highlighted the importance of grassroots cooperation in tackling insecurity. While security agencies have a central role in preventing and investigating crime, residents can also help by sharing timely and reliable information.

His message was clear: cultism, violence and criminal intimidation would not be tolerated in Baiyeku, and his administration would work with relevant authorities and community leaders to create a safer environment for everyone.