Traditional ruler advocates community surveillance to curb crimes at grassroots

Credit: NAN

Oba Babatunde Ogunlaja, the Aladeshonyin of Epe-Noforija in Epe Division, has called for community surveillance and cooperation with law enforcement agencies to curb crimes at the grassroots.

Ogunlaja, in e media interaction  in Epe-Noforija on Tuesday, urged residents of his domain to prioritise peace and security within the neighbourhood.

According to him, community surveillance and cooperation with law enforcement agencies are essential in curbing crimes at the grassroots.

He also stressed the need for unity and vigilance to address societal challenges.

The traditional ruler emphasised the importance of peaceful coexistence among community members, urging residents to live in harmony regardless of their backgrounds or beliefs.

According to him, it is only through peace that true development and prosperity can be achieved.

Ogunlaja expressed concern over the rising cases of ritual killings, cultism, kidnapping, and other social vices plaguing various parts of the country.

He said that the acts threatened the stability and safety of communities and society at large.

He called on residents to be more security conscious and report any suspicious activity to the appropriate authorities.

Ogunlaja appealed to traditional and youth leaders, as well as community elders to serve as watchdogs and role models in the fight against criminality in the society.

He said that everyone has a role to play in maintaining law and order in the society, condemning the acts of land grabbing, communal violence, and illegal possession of arms.

He described such actions as detrimental to the peace and progress of the land.

He urged residents to embrace dialogue, understanding, and respect for traditional values as tools for resolving disputes and promoting unity.

He reaffirmed his commitment to working with all relevant stakeholders for a safer community.

Ogunlaja called on community members to remain vigilant, united, and focused on building a peaceful environment.

According to him, peace is the foundation of every thriving society, hence all hands must be on deck.