Kunle Adelabu
Rep. Babajimi Adegoke Benson, Member, House of Representatives representing Ikorodu Federal Constituency, has assured residents of Igbe communities of swift and deliberate military intervention to restore peace and security in the areas which have been at the mercy of kidnappers.
Benson, who is the Chairman, House Committee on Defense made this known on Sunday , during his appearance as Keynote Speaker at the Democracy Day Service and Political Dialogue hosted by The Elevation Church, Ikorodu, in commemoration of Nigeria’s 26th Democracy Day.
The lawmaker’s remarks came during the interactive audience session, where a Community Development Association (CDA) Chairman from Ijede LCDA raised alarm over the worsening security situation in Igbe Laara, Igbe Akapo, Igbe Ogunro, and other adjoining clusters. The visibly disturbed community leader described how kidnappers now break into homes in broad daylight, abduct residents, and escape through nearby creeks, sometimes leaving victims dead or traumatised even after huge ransoms are paid.
“The rate at which kidnappers operate now is alarming. We’re not safe anymore – even inside our homes. We appeal to you, Hon. Benson, as Chairman of the House Committee on Defence, to come to our aid,” the local leader pleaded.
In a firm response, Rep. Benson disclosed that discussions and logistics have been finalised for the establishment of a Forward Operating Base (FOB) that will jointly serve the affected areas within Ijede and Igbogbo/Baiyeku LCDAs. He added that military presence, led by Col. Oyegbola, would be deployed to the region in collaboration with the Executive Chairmen of Ijede LCDA (Hon. Motunrayo Alogba) and Igbogbo LCDA (Hon. Sesan Daini).
“I feel for you, my people. I’ve already linked Col. Oyegbola with the LCDA Chairmen. They’ll be meeting this week. We’re bringing the military in. Let’s see if any of these so-called kidnappers will still be bold enough to operate,” Benson declared.
The lawmaker’s reassurance comes at a critical time. As residents of the Igbe area have for months endured unchecked attacks by criminals, many of whom exploit the swampy terrain to elude capture.
Rep. Benson also used the platform to highlight national gaps in security funding, stating that Nigeria has historically failed to meet the UN-mandated 5% of GDP benchmark for security spending.
“You can’t kill poverty with guns. True security begins with functional local governments, job creation, and dignity in work,” he added, reinforcing his call for local government autonomy.
The Democracy Day service drew a diverse audience, including Hon. Adedayo Olumuyiwa Samuel, Member representing Apapa Federal Constituency. The event was hosted by the pastoral team of The Elevation Church, Ikorodu, and aimed to bridge the gap between faith, governance, and civic participation.
Rep. Benson’s declaration has since sparked hope among residents who say they’ve waited too long for federal presence in the area.
“If this Forward Operating Base comes through, it would be the first time in years we feel truly protected,” a youth leader from Igbe Akapo commented.
