The current state of peace and security across Ikorodu Division is set to receive a major boost with the promise by the Nigerian Army to collaborate with the Ikorodu Division traditional institution and the Ikorodu Division Local Joint Task Force in ensuring peace and tranquility continue to reign in the Division.
This collaboration was consumated yesterday at the Palace of the Ayangburen of Ikorodu, Oba Kabir Adewale Shotobi when he received the new 9 Brigade Nigerian Army Commander, Brigadier General Nsikak J. Edet who paid a courtesy call to the first class monarch at his palace.
The Brigadier General, whose transfer was effected in May 2023 said the purpose of the visit was to acquaint himself with the traditional institution of Ikorodu Division of Lagos State.
Oba Shotobi, who was also in the company of HRM, Oba Adewale Mustapha Abdul, and HRM, Oba Abayomi Nelson Ogunlari, Olowu of Owu-Ikosi, warmly received the new Brigadier who was introduced to the almost 80 communities in Ikorodu Kingdom. He was also introduced to the Baales, Chiefs and other traditional heads in Ikorodu Kingdom.
To further promote effective security, Brigadier Edet was also introduced to the Ikorodu Division Peace Initiative Local Joint Task Force and how the LJTF has assured in maintaining peace and security to Ikorodu Division communities.
In his brief remarks, Mr Rotimi Erogbogbo, Chairman, Ikorodu Oga Development Association (IKODASS), I welcomed Brigadier Edet to Ikorodu City, while assuring him of the Community’s support and collaboration.
Brigadier-General Edet, in his speech, explained that before his transfer to Lagos, he was formerly the commander of the 12th brigade in Lokoja.
Detailing that his visit to Ikorodu was to embrace the royal father, just like a son would do, he commended Oba Kabiru Shotobi for his leadership style that has entrenched peace and security in the community.
Explaining further, he said, ‘You will hardly condone the issue of crimes in a region, as long as the traditional institution works firmly together in unity and harmony with all security outfits’.
‘I also want to use this medium to implore Kabiesi to continuously extend his warm embrace towards my soldiers whenever they are carrying out their duties in the community’, he said.
Continuing, he said, ‘If there is any problem that arises between my soldiers and residents in the community, it should be handled with wisdom and also I will always be accessible to intervene in such circumstances’, Brigadier asserted.
Underscoring the importance of community policing, Brigadier Edet gave kudos to the Ikorodu Division Peace Initiative Local Joint Task Force, explaining how their role has also contributed to bringing peace to Ikorodu communities.
He further advised community security outfits to synergy more with the soldiers to ensure peace is sustained across the Division.
Commandant of Ikorodu Division Peace Initiative IDPIL- Local Joint Task Force, Chief Olarewaju Olabinjo, in his remarks, explained that Ikorodu Division is a safe region, thus would not be a source of security concern.
Recounting how 3 miscreants in Ibeshe axis who shot a trooper had been recently apprehended, Chief Olarewaju noted that the synergy between the military LJTF Personnel would always be mutually beneficial.
The paramount ruler of Ikorodu kingdom, Oba Kabiru Adewale Shotobi, in his remarks, described Brigadier-General Edet’s visit as heart-warming, especially considering the fact that thing of joy that he recently resumed his new office in May.
‘Though your visit is a normal routine, we are happy that you are here to greet us, and acquaint yourself with the traditional institution that looks after the cantonment’.
Oba Shotobi noted that, the purpose of this visit was to establish a mutual understanding between the military and Ikorodu Communities.
‘Brigadier General Edet has been posted to our domain, so we have to look after him. It also means we will arrange a date to also reciprocate his visit, Oba Shotobi said.
The King prayed for the Brigadier-General for subsequent promotion to higher ranks after his effective discharge of the duties of his current office.
‘As you protect us in Ikorodu, God will always protect you in return’, the monarch prayed.
The Ikorodu Division Paramount Ruler also assured his visitor and his entourage of his readiness to support his success in office.
‘Don’t hesitate to let me know whenever something comes up that makes you feel at odds, we are swift in taking considerable measures to provide solutions’, Oba Shotobi added.
The King concluded his speech by commending the Nigerian Military for embracing democracy, and supporting the new political dispensation in Nigeria.
A major highlight of the visit was the presentation of an Honourary Medal to Oba Shotobi by Brigadier-General Edet.
Those on the entourage of General Edet were Colonel, M.I Abdulrahman, Major A Sanusi, Major A.A Nasir and Lt. M Hussain.
Others who joined Oba Shotobi in receiving his guest were the IDPIL Director of Finance and Administration, Mr Taiwo Salami and Special Adviser to Senator Adetokunbo Mukhail Abiru, Dr Saheed Ibikunle and many others.
Brigadier General Nsikak J. Edet took over the mantle of leadership of the 9 Brigade Nigerian Army Ikeja from his predecessor Brig. Gen. Isangubong E. Akpaumontia who proceeded to Lokoja, Kogi State to assume duty at the Nigerian Army 12 Brigade, Lokoja.
