The recent installation of streetlights at the Odeyale Circular Road Bridge, which links Odeyale and Akanran Road, by the Ona Ara Local Government, led by the Executive Chairman, Dr Temitope Kolapo Glorious, is a commendable move that deserves applause. Relying on credible intelligence reports indicating heightened security threats around the area, the Chairman promptly responded by improving visibility to ensure the safety of residents, motorists and commuters, especially during nighttime hours.
In addition to the lighting project, officers and men of the Nigeria Police Force from Akanran Division and the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) were deployed to maintain a steady security presence along the Circular Road corridor.
This initiative, coupled with the deployment of security personnel, demonstrates a clear commitment to enhancing public safety and addressing rising security concerns in the community.
As Nigeria grapples with the scourge of insecurity, with kidnappings and banditry on the rise, local governments must take proactive steps to protect their citizens. Dr Glorious’ administration has shown that with swift and decisive action, it is possible to create safer environments for residents, motorists and commuters.
Studies reveal that improved street lighting can significantly reduce crime rates, with research indicating a 21% decrease in areas with enhanced lighting.
Dr. Temitope Kolapo Glorious’ administration must have implemented several strategies to engage with the community and address security concerns in Ona Ara Local Government such as engaging with local communities, traditional leaders and security agencies to develop effective crime prevention strategies; installation of streetlights which have been installed in some strategic places and are being installed with security personnel deployed to ensure safety, particularly at night; provision of educational support, skills training, economic opportunities to reduce crime and promote community development; and distribution of 500 free JAMB forms to indigent youths, supporting their education and future. Recall that at a petite ceremony, I recently donated books worth over N500,000 to the Local Government for the establishment of the Bayo and Bimpe Oyero Foundation Library in the Local Government. I am a member of the Board of Trustees (BoT) of the Foundation.
Local Government watchers also noted that Dr Glorious’ administration has developed an environmental programme by designating Thursdays as Environmental Sanitation Day for all markets promoting cleanliness and healthy living; renovation of classrooms; construction of office complexes; and provision of borehole water projects to enhance the quality of life for
residents.
To replicate Ona Ara Local Government’s model, other local governments can consider the establishment of community policing where local communities, traditional leaders and security agencies are engaged to develop effective crime prevention strategies; invest in Infrastructure to improve lighting, upgrade roads and communication facilities to enhance safety and security; and empower youth by providing educational support, skills training and economic opportunities to reduce crime and promote community development.
Local governments should note that they are expected to adopt a human-centred approach in promoting security by considering the dignity and well-being of citizens. Also, they should note that security measures must be proportionate to the threat posed and do not excessively infringe on human rights.
In my article of Wednesday, 26 November, 2025, titled “Kidnapping the Kidnappers: The Katsina Model in Counter-Terrorism and Restructuring, I narrated the Katsina incident, where villagers of Sabun Binin, Babanlu counter-kidnapped bandits’ families, securing the release of their abducted relatives, and noted that the development has sparked a crucial conversation about community-led security initiatives and decentralisation of policing. This bold move highlights the potential of empowering local governments and community policing.
The Katsina incident, I posited, demonstrates that community-led initiatives can be effective, but sustainable solutions require structural reforms. Empowering local governments through their autonomy, and establishing local and state police could be vital steps towards securing Nigeria’s future.
The Progressive Forum, Ibadan (TPFI), applauds Dr Temitope Kolapo Glorious, the Chairman of Ona Ara Local Government, for his tireless efforts to enhance the quality of life for residents. As a group of professionals, academic and distinguished Ibadan indigenes from across the world, TPFI shares a common vision with Dr Glorious, focusing on sustainable development in key areas such as housing, education, healthcare ( especially the primary healthcare system), peace, security, environment, water supply, food security, market and park systems, among others. This partnership signifies a promising collaboration towards achieving shared goals, leveraging collective expertise, and driving positive change in Ibadanland and beyond. TPFI’s involvement will undoubtedly amplify the impact of Dr Glorious and other local governments’ initiatives, fostering a brighter future for Ibadanland communities.
By investing in infrastructure and security measures, the Ona Ara Local Government is not only improving the quality of life for its residents but also contributing to the broader efforts to combat insecurity in Nigeria.
Tunji Oladejo, JP, mnipr, who writes from the University of Ibadan, is the Chairman of The Progressive Forum, Ibadan (TPFI) via oladejo65@gmail.com.
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