ADEOLA OGUNLADE
The Executive Chairman of Ikeja Local Government, Comrade Akeem Olalekan Dauda (AKOD), has commissioned a new security gate in Anifowose Community, describing it as a landmark achievement in the collective effort to strengthen security and safeguard lives and property.
He commended the Anifowose Landlords and Tenants Association for its resilience and unity in delivering the project despite initial challenges, noting that Anifowose remains one of the pioneer communities in Lagos State to embrace gated community security initiatives.
Speaking at the commissioning, Comrade Dauda stressed that security goes beyond physical infrastructure, urging residents to ensure the gate is manned 24 hours daily to guarantee unrestricted access for residents, emergency responders and security agencies.
He also clarified that there is no law prohibiting community gates in Lagos State, provided they do not hinder the constitutional right to freedom of movement. “A gate is only one aspect of security. Peace, vigilance and cooperation among residents are the real foundations of a safe community,” he said.
The Council Chairman reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to supporting community-driven security initiatives and urged landlords, tenants, artisans and business owners to promptly pay their security levies to ensure the sustainability of the project.
He praised the association’s leadership, particularly its Chairperson, Mrs. Stella Banjo, the Baale of Anifowose and other stakeholders for their accountability, unity and commitment to community development, describing the nearly ₦10 million project as a model worthy of emulation across Ikeja.
Responding, the Baale of Anifowose, Chief Semiu Anifowose, thanked Comrade Dauda for his unwavering support towards improving security and the welfare of residents, assuring him of the community’s continued cooperation.
The event was attended by representatives of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), the League of Imams, the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW), youth leaders, community stakeholders and the Councillor representing the ward, Hon. Idris Salami.