The Commissioner of Police, Lagos State Command, CP Tijani Fatai, has raised concern over increasing cases of cultism and gang-related violence in the Agege axis of Lagos State, calling for collaboration between residents and security agencies to curb the trend.
CP Fatai spoke during a security meeting held by the Orile-Agege Local Government Council, which comprises Orile-Agege, Ifako-Ijaiye, and Agege communities.
Describing the area as his home, he lamented the deterioration of security in the locality, noting that the current situation contrasts with the peaceful environment he once knew.
“This is my home, my area. I cannot be proud as the Commissioner of Police in Lagos State if criminal activities are allowed to thrive here,” he said.
He identified cultism and gangsterism as the predominant security challenges facing the communities, citing recurring incidents of violence and killings linked to these groups.
“Today, one person is killed; tomorrow, two others. This trend must stop,” the CP said.
CP Fatai said effective policing requires active community participation and urged residents to provide timely and credible information to law enforcement agencies.
“Security is not a one-man business. If you know those involved, report them. We are ready to partner with the community at all levels to restore peace and order,” he said.
He cited Mushin as an example where collaboration between the police, community leaders, and residents reduced cult-related violence.
The CP called on parents, youths, and community leaders to take responsibility by discouraging criminal behaviour and organising sensitisation programmes aimed at addressing the root causes of insecurity.
“There is fire on the mountain. We must come together, unite, and take decisive action to reclaim our communities,” he added.
Chairman of Orile-Agege Local Government, Hon. Abiodun Idowu, described the security challenges as serious and alarming, noting that the situation requires both immediate and long-term interventions.
He said the council is implementing strategic measures, including the establishment of a joint security task force and enhanced collaboration with state and federal authorities to strengthen the security architecture in the area.
“We are committed to working with all stakeholders to combat criminality and ensure the safety of lives and property in our communities,” the chairman said.
The meeting ended with stakeholders resolving to intensify efforts in addressing cultism and restoring peace across the affected areas.
