Lagos official urges calm, warns against profiling new arrivals

Authorities in Lagos State are appealing for calm and urging residents to avoid ethnic profiling or taking matters into their own hands amid concerns over the influx of "certain groups of persons" into various communities. Hon. Abdullahi Olowa, Executive Chairman of the Ibeju-Lekki Local Government Area, issued a public security advisory on Monday, acknowledging the growing apprehension among residents regarding the identities and intentions of the newcomers.

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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.

Olowa stated that his administration takes these concerns seriously and has already escalated the situation to state and local security agencies. "Security authorities at both the state and local levels are fully aware of the situation and are actively monitoring developments," he assured, adding that "necessary intelligence and security measures are being implemented to ensure the continued peace and stability of our communities."

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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.

While encouraging residents to remain vigilant and report any suspicious movements to the police, the chairman issued a stern warning against "jungle justice, harassment, or unlawful profiling." He emphasized that security matters are best handled by the appropriate authorities. "No individual or group should be subjected to harassment, intimidation, profiling, or any form of unlawful treatment," Olowa stated.

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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.

The advisory comes amidst a national challenge of security concerns. Olowa urged residents to "remain vigilant and support lawful efforts aimed at safeguarding lives and property" and to continue with their lawful activities. Similar reassurances were provided by the Imota Local Council Development Area and management of GBEDU 100.1FM following viral videos alleging attacks on a primary school.

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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.