Remo North communities in Ogun initiate security outfit

 

By Bade Coker,

Proactive communities in Remo North local Government Area of Ogun State namely Ode Remo , Eposo, Iraye and Ogunmogbo, have launched an indigenous security outfit known as Ode Remo Joint Security Team (JST), aimed at addressing the security challenges confronting the area.

The official unveiling of the outfit took place on Saturday August 2nd, 2025, during the annual Lafose Day celebration at the Alaiye Ode palace in Ode Remo.

During the ceremony, members of the newly formed team, which is expected to work with security operatives to tackle crimes and criminals in Ode Remo, Eposo, Iraye, Ogunmogbo and environs, were fully kitted in smart uniforms, equipped and mobilised to commence operations. 

According to the chairman of the Ode Remo Development Fund (ORDF), Hon. Paul Kalejaiye, the development marks a bold and proactive step by the communities towards ensuring the protection of lives and property. He commended all stakeholders who made the formation of the outfit a possibility.

Speaking further, Kalejaiye, who was flanked by the ORDF Co-chair an, Mr. Ade Ogundeyin, commended the people of the communities for their unity and commitment to securing their community. He lauded the initiative as a model of grassroots-driven security architecture and specially appreciated Balogun Kola Oyefeso, Hon. Benjamin Olabinjo, Mr. Ade Ogundeyin and himself, Paul Kalejaiye, among others, for donating motorbikes, security equipments, uniforms, boots etc, and bankrolling the proposed salaries and emoluments of the officers.

While similarly appreciating the Alaiye Ode of Ode Remo, Oba Adetunji Osho and the Eleposo of Eposo, Oba Mukaila Labinjo for their supports and guidance for the initiative, Kalejaiye lauded Alhaji Kamoru Olomowewe, Otunba 'Dare Odufowokan, Mr. Yaya Onagbesan and other members of the Security Sub Committee for ensuring the success of the security initiative.

The ORDF boss also urged indigenes and residents of the communities to be prepared to contribute their financial quota to the team to ensure hitch free operations.

“We are proud of what we have been able to do. This is a call to duty for us all to rise in defence of their homeland. The time has come for us to take responsibility for our own safety. I am sure that more support will come in due course from all of you and others who are not here,” he said.

The JST is made up of specially trained personnel who re indigenes of the communities, who are saddled with the tasks of  surveillance, intelligence gathering, patrols, and collaborating with existing security agencies to combat crime in the area.

Traditional rulers, community leaders, women leaders, political leaders, entrepreneurs, youth representatives, and students present at the event all expressed happiness and pledged their support for the initiative. 

The formation of the JST has been described as timely and commendable, by the leadership of the Police division, Amotekun Corps, Vigilantes, So-Safe etc.

"We are happy at the development and we commend the efforts of the ORDF. It is a bold statement of unity, resilience, and a renewed commitment to self-help,” said Alhaji Kazeem Ajayi, a trader and resident. Another resident, James Sowole, described the JST as commendable. “Well, to me it’s a nice approach because that’s what we need right now.

Meanwhile, the leadership of the JST said the security outfit will be very professional, disciplined, and cooperative in its duties. They promise to collaborate with other stakeholders, including traditional rulers and law enforcement agencies in ensuring that criminals are chased far away from Ode Remo, Eposo, Iraye and Ogunmogbo.