07/06/2026
COMMUNITY SECURITY: OBA OGUNLAJA DONATES MATERIALS FOR PROPER VIGILANCE.
By Lasisi Temitope
As security of lives and properties is of paramount to a good leadership, this and many more made the paramount ruler of Odo-Noforija Kingdom, HRM Oba Babatunde Ogunlaja springs into action to protect the people of Eredo and its environs against unscrupulous acts.
On Saturady 6th June, 2026, Aladeshoyin of Odo-Noforija, Oba Babatunde Ogunlaja met with the security agencies and Arewa groups in the area to map out strategies to protect the lives and properties of people amidst security challenge in the country.
According to the monarch, all the Arewa groups should join forces to curb the situation of insecurity in Eredo and its environs
He said;
"We can't allow bandits in this kingdom. Therefore, Arewa groups should ensure that any Hausa man among you must be checked and abide by the rules and regulations of our land”
"We need peace and good harmonious relations in our kingdom. Whenever you see something, say something, but be sure that the information you pass is authentic”.
"Security of lives and property is what we should join hands to control because an injury to one is an injury to all," he reiterated.
In his statement to the Arewa community, the Adegbajo of Odogbawojo kingdom, Oba Morufudeen Adelani Adeniyi stressed that security of lives and properties is a duty for all
He said;
"Inspite of any tribe you belong to, the security of lives and property is a duty of everyone of us because what happens to one, happens to all”.
"This is the reason we should all join hands to curb the situation of insecurity in our society," Oba Adegbajo pointed out
A military security chief who was at the meeting advised that the slogan, which says "if you see something, say something," must not be twisted
"It is good to say something when you see something but dont add to it as it can breach the peace of the community," he warned
The highlight of the event saw the Aladeshoyin of Odo-Noforija Kingdom, donating a brand new patrol motorcycle to the AREWA security troop to make their vigilante work easier.
The monarch however urged the group not to hesitate to report any suspicious Strangers to the appropriate authority.
He emphasised that okada riders and tricycles should not operate after 10 pm in Eredo henceforth.
It would be recalled in a proactive effort to strengthen peace, security, and harmonious coexistence among all residents of Eredo LCDA, the Aladeshoyin of Odo-Noforija kingdom HRM Oba B. O. Ogunlaja had earlier on Monday 1st of June held a crucial security meeting with the leaders and representatives of the Arewa Community across the various towns within the council area.
The meeting which called for the presence of His Royal Majesty, Oba (Dr.) Babatunde Ola-Ogun Ogunlaja, JP, the Paramount Ruler and Aladeshoyin of Odo-Noforija Kingdom, alongside His Royal Majesty, Oba Oluwo Abiola, the Odo Egiri of Odo-Egiri Kingdom, traditional chiefs, community stakeholders, and the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) of Odo-Noforija Police Station was held at the palace of Aladeshoyin
During the meeting, the royal fathers emphasized the importance of unity, vigilance, and cooperation among all ethnic groups and residents. They urged community leaders to continue working closely with security agencies by providing timely and useful information that would help prevent criminal activities and ensure the safety of lives and property.
The DPO reaffirmed the commitment of the Nigeria Police Force to maintaining law and order and encouraged members of the community to remain law-abiding while supporting the ongoing security efforts through effective collaboration and intelligence sharing.
His Royal Majesty, Oba (Dr.) Babatunde Ola-Ogun Ogunlaja, JP, reiterated that security is a collective responsibility and called on all residents, regardless of ethnic or religious background, to embrace peace, mutual respect, and unity for the continued growth and development of Eredo and its neighboring communities.
The meeting concluded with a renewed commitment from all stakeholders to sustain peace, strengthen community policing efforts, and foster cordial relationships among the diverse groups living within the area.
“A peaceful community is the foundation of sustainable development, and security remains everyone’s responsibility.”
