The Chairman of Ibeju-Lekki Local Government Area of Lagos State, Abdullahi Olowa, has appealed to residents to remain calm and avoid ethnic profiling, harassment or any form of self-help following reports of the arrival of certain groups of people in parts of the council area.
Olowa gave the assurance in a public security advisory issued on Monday amid growing concerns among residents over the identities and activities of the newcomers.
The chairman said the local government had taken the concerns seriously and immediately engaged relevant security agencies to ensure that the situation does not threaten peace and security in the area.
According to him, security authorities at both the state and local levels are fully aware of the development and have already begun monitoring activities in the affected communities.
He stressed that intelligence gathering and other security measures were ongoing to ensure that residents remain safe and that law and order are maintained.
“The attention of the Local Government has been drawn to reports and concerns regarding the recent arrival of certain groups of persons into parts of our communities. As an administration that places the safety and security of our people above all else, we have taken these concerns seriously and immediately engaged the relevant security agencies.
“I am pleased to inform residents that security authorities at both the state and local levels are fully aware of the situation and are actively monitoring developments. Necessary intelligence and security measures are being implemented to ensure the continued peace and stability of our communities,” the statement said.
The advisory comes against the backdrop of growing public discussion and anxiety in some parts of Ibeju-Lekki over the presence of new arrivals whose movements have attracted attention among community members.
Although the chairman did not disclose the identities of the groups involved or the specific locations affected, he acknowledged that the development had generated concern among residents.
Ibeju-Lekki, located in the eastern part of Lagos State, has witnessed rapid growth and development over the past decade. The area has become one of the state’s fastest-growing economic corridors due to the presence of major projects such as the Lekki Deep Sea Port, the Dangote Refinery, the Lekki Free Trade Zone and several industrial and residential developments.
The rapid expansion of economic activities in the area has attracted people from different parts of Nigeria and beyond in search of employment, business opportunities and better living conditions.
However, the increasing population and movement of people into the area have also raised concerns about security, particularly in communities experiencing rapid urbanisation.
Against this background, Olowa urged residents not to resort to unlawful actions or make assumptions about individuals based on their ethnic background, appearance or place of origin.
He warned that taking the law into one’s own hands could worsen the situation and create unnecessary tension within the communities.
“I strongly advise against taking the law into your own hands. No individual or group should be subjected to harassment, intimidation, profiling or any form of unlawful treatment.
“Security matters are best handled by the appropriate authorities, who have the legal mandate and capacity to do so,” he said.
The chairman stressed that while residents have a responsibility to be security conscious, they must also respect the rights of others and allow security agencies to carry out their duties professionally.
He called on community leaders, youth groups, religious organisations and other stakeholders to support efforts aimed at maintaining peace and promoting harmony among residents.
Olowa also encouraged members of the public to remain vigilant and promptly report any suspicious movement, activity or behaviour to law enforcement agencies rather than spreading rumours or engaging in confrontations.
According to him, timely information from residents can help security agencies prevent potential threats and respond effectively to emerging situations.
“At a time when security concerns remain a national challenge, it is important that we remain vigilant and support lawful efforts aimed at safeguarding lives and property,” he stated.
Security remains a major concern across many parts of Nigeria, with communities often facing challenges ranging from kidnapping and armed robbery to communal conflicts and other forms of criminal activity.
In response, governments at different levels have repeatedly urged citizens to work closely with security agencies by providing useful information while avoiding actions that could undermine peace and social cohesion.
Residents of Ibeju-Lekki have in recent years become increasingly sensitive to security issues due to the area’s strategic importance and growing population.
The presence of major infrastructure projects and investments has transformed the council area into one of Nigeria’s most important economic hubs, attracting workers, traders, investors and visitors from diverse backgrounds.
As a result, maintaining peace and ensuring the safety of residents have become critical responsibilities for both government authorities and security agencies.
Olowa assured residents that his administration remains committed to protecting lives and property and will continue to work closely with relevant security agencies to address any concerns that may arise.
He reiterated that there was no reason for panic and urged residents to continue with their normal daily activities while remaining alert and security conscious.
The chairman expressed confidence in the ability of security agencies to manage the situation and preserve peace in the communities.
He also appealed to residents to avoid spreading unverified information capable of creating fear or tension among the people.
As security agencies continue to monitor developments, community members are expected to cooperate with lawful authorities and support efforts aimed at maintaining the peaceful atmosphere that has largely characterised Ibeju-Lekki despite its rapid growth and expansion.
For now, local authorities insist that the situation remains under control and that all necessary steps are being taken to ensure the continued safety and stability of the area.