The National Youth Council of Nigeria, Itire-Ikate Local Branch, in collaboration with the Peace Law Project from the University of Edinburgh, Scotland, organized a one-day roundtable event focused on building peace and expanding access to legal representation in Nigeria’s Gangscapes.

The event brought together a diverse group of participants, including youth leaders, legal experts, scholars, and community members, who gathered to discuss the pressing issue of gang-related violence and its impact on communities in Nigeria.

During the keynote address, Prof. Oladayo Tade delivered a powerful message advocating for peace, addressing poverty, and emphasizing the importance of recognizing and engaging with the youth. His thought-provoking speech shed light on the responsibilities of various stakeholders in building a harmonious society.

Drawing attention to the local government, Prof. Tade stressed the importance of recognizing and empowering the youth. He urged the Local Government to take on the responsibility of providing opportunities and engaging with young people.

Addressing the security agencies present, Prof. Tade emphasized the significance of respecting and upholding the fundamental rights of individuals. He stressed that when the rights of people are violated during arrests or other security operations, it not only undermines peace but also poses a threat to the very fabric of society. He urged the security agencies to carry out their duties diligently, without oppressing the people they are meant to protect.

Hon. Hammed Oladipupo Idris, the Council Leader of Itire-Ikate LCDA, who also represents the Executive Chairman, Hon. Ahmed Apatira, addressing the audience he shed light on its purpose and significance. Speaking passionately, he emphasized the importance of maintaining peace and orderliness within the community, particularly in the face of violence.

During his speech, Hon. Idris acknowledged the presence of legal experts at the event, who would enlighten the attendees on accessing legal services in cases of violence. Recognizing the role of the Government, he stressed the need for increased efforts in sensitizing and orienting the younger generation to promote peace and tranquility throughout the nation.

Barrister Dayo Bello, a legal practitioner, shed light on the rights of an accused person upon being arrested and taken to court. His insightful remarks emphasized the significance of these constitutional rights in ensuring a fair and just legal process.

Barrister Bello emphasized that an accused person possesses several fundamental rights from the moment of arrest. One of these rights is the right to remain silent, which allows the accused to withhold any self-incriminating statements during the arrest process. This right serves to protect individuals from potential coercion or unfair treatment.

Prof. Shina Alimi shed light on the significance of having access to legal assistance in various everyday situations, such as neighborhood conflicts and traffic offenses. The purpose of this discussion was to address the challenges individuals face when they find themselves in legal predicaments due to their lack of knowledge about the law.

Comrade Oshodi John Ayodele, the Coordinator of the National Youth Council of Nigeria, Itire-Ikate Local Branch, highlighted the significance of the town hall meeting. He emphasized that the aim was to foster effective communication with the youth, ensuring they are aware of their rights and wrongdoings. By educating them about potential offenses and guiding them on the right path, the meeting aimed to prevent unnecessary arrests and legal consequences.

During the meeting, Comrade Oshodi expressed his appreciation to Hon. Ahmed Apatira, the Chairman of Itire-Ikate LCDA, for his unwavering support and commitment to youth development. Hon. Apatira has played a fatherly role in the youth constituency, always ready to lend a helping hand when it comes to the growth and progress of the youth.

Comrade Oshodi further recommended that similar programs should be replicated in various Local Government Areas across Lagos State. By extending such initiatives, more young individuals can benefit from the knowledge and guidance provided, empowering them to make informed decisions and contribute positively to society.

Lateef Aremu, the project officer of the Peace Love Project based at the University of Edinburgh, said The primary objective of today’s program was to provide a platform for open discussions, brainstorming sessions, and collaborative efforts to ensure peace and easy access to legal representation within the community.

Lateef Aremu emphasized the significance of this gathering, urging participants to seize the opportunity to work towards protecting the rights of individuals and promoting fair legal practices.

Engr. Ibrahim Olalekan Adigun, the Coordinator of the National Youth Council of Nigeria Odi-Olowo Ojuwoye Local Branch, recently expressed his admiration for his colleague, Comrade John Oshodi. Adigun commended Oshodi for his efforts in organizing a program aimed at sensitizing the local community, particularly the youth boys.

Adigun highlighted the importance of such initiatives, stating that programs like these should be a priority for the local government. He emphasized the need to create awareness among the youth and educate them about crucial matters that affect their lives.

HRM Oba Lateef Adams the onikate of Ikate Surulere, ably represented by Chief Murphy Aribidesi, Dr. Diekara, Dr. Isaiah Olayode, Executive Secretary LSSTF represented by Hon Quadri Onikeku, and several other notable speakers made significant contributions to the discussion.Al

Also present at the occasion; NSCDC, Dpo Ijeshatedo, DSS, CO LNSC Itire Ikate Olusesan Idowu, and Man O War Nigeria, Representative of Member Representing Lagos Central, Nigeria Youth Parliament, WAIC, MSSN Itire Ikate etc.