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LAGOS, Nigeria - The Lagos State Police Command has promised to intensify operations in vulnerable areas of Obalende in Lagos.
Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) Tijani Fatai made this announcement at a town hall meeting held at the Police Officers’ Mess in Ikeja, in celebration of the 2025 National Police Day.
The gathering facilitated discussions between the police and key stakeholders in the community. Attendees included members of the Police Community Relations Committee (PCRC), the Police Eminent Persons Forum, Community Development Committees (CDCs), as well as religious and traditional leaders.
The discussions centered around improving security in Lagos State, with participants expressing various concerns and suggestions for enhancing policing efforts.
Stakeholders praised the Lagos State Police Command for its proactive security initiatives that have contributed to relative peace and safety in the region, and they committed to ongoing collaboration in the fight against crime.
The meeting also highlighted the crucial roles that traditional and religious leaders, as well as civil society organizations, play in bridging the gap between law enforcement and the community. During the meeting, a stakeholder raised concerns about the activities of illicit drug dealers in Obalende, urging police intervention.
In response, Fatai, representing the Lagos State Commissioner of Police, stated, “We are vigilant in Obalende. We have conducted multiple raids in the area; however, it is extensive, and whenever we clear one spot, another camp emerges. Many flock to Lagos, believing it to be a safe haven with better opportunities, but we will persist in our efforts. We will continue to conduct raids to manage drug addiction.”
Regarding patrol vehicles, he mentioned, “The state government has provided some vehicles and is committed to supplying more to all divisions. Police vehicles operate 24/7, but Divisional Police Officers (DPOs) are responsible for their upkeep. Communities should support the DPOs. I urge CDC chairpersons to focus on their foundational goals by enhancing governance at the local level.
The Community Development Associations (CDAs) and CDCs need to enhance their engagement and discuss what improvements are necessary. We should all contribute to our communities. Baales should maintain records of residents in their areas, which would aid in securing the locality. The Lagos State Police Command is dedicated to fostering robust relationships with the community and collaborating with all stakeholders to ensure Lagos remains safe.”
In his address, Baale of Kirikiri, Apapa, Chief Babalola Shabi, advised DPOs to prevent illegal gatherings.
He emphasized that DPOs must be informed about any meetings in their jurisdiction to ensure police presence at these events. “Robberies and cult activities are often orchestrated in such illegal gatherings.
Police should attend these meetings. I will not hesitate to report Baales who permit drug use within their premises, and I would welcome them at the gates of the Kirikiri Correctional Facility.” Regarding the herders-farmers conflict, he noted, “There seems to be collaboration from within during any attacks. Such occurrences may arise over disputes about farmland, leading adversaries to call upon herders for assistance against their rivals.”
