Jare Olukotun
Hon. Benson Sunday Ayodele, Executive Chairman, Imota Local Council Development Area (LCDA), has called on ethnic nationalities residing in Imota to focus on the need for unity and collaboration.
The council boss who met with members of the Hausa and Fulani communities in Imota, during a sensitisation exercise, also reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to inclusive governance, peaceful coexistence, and community security through constant and effective communications.
The engagement, held at the Ejina Market Square and Imota Roundabout, brought the Chairman face-to-face with residents, traders, and community leaders of Northern Nigerian extraction. The initiative formed part of ongoing efforts by the council administration to strengthen inter-ethnic relations and foster a greater sense of belonging among all residents of Imota.
Addressing the gathering, Hon. Benson emphasised the importance of unity and collaboration among all ethnic groups, stressing that every resident has a role to play in maintaining peace and security. He urged members of the Hausa/Fulani community to see themselves as important stakeholders in the growth and development of Imota LCDA.
The Chairman called on community members to actively support security efforts by reporting suspicious activities and working closely with security agencies and local authorities, emphasising that effective community policing and mutual trust among residents remain critical to preserving the relative peace currently enjoyed in the area.
“We are one people living in the same community. I call on every member of the Hausa/Fulani community to embrace peace, reject any form of division, and actively collaborate with security agencies and the LCDA leadership in building a safer and more prosperous Imota,” Hon. Benson Ayodele stated.
In a move aimed at improving planning and inclusiveness, the Chairman directed all Hausa residents in Imota to register with the local council. He explained that the exercise would enable the administration to maintain accurate records of community members and facilitate their participation in developmental programmes and government interventions.
Speaking on behalf of the Hausa/Fulani community, their leaders pledged continued support for the council’s peace-building initiatives and assured the council chairman of their commitment to maintaining harmony and security in Imota.
The event concluded with renewed assurances of cooperation between the council administration and the Arewa community as stakeholders united behind the vision of a peaceful, secure, and prosperous Imota LCDA.
Key officials of the council, including the Secretary to the Local Government, Hon. Mohammed Fagbesan, and the Head of Department of Agriculture and Community Development Officer, Mr. Bakare Olukayode, were in attendance. Also present was the Seriki Hausa of Imota, Mallam Ibrahim Bala, who served as interpreter and helped communicate the Chairman’s message effectively to the audience and Mr. Adetunde Adetilewa Adekoya, who played a significant role in coordinating the engagement at both venues.
