Ilara-Yewa Consolidates Self-Help Legacy, Commissions Community-Driven Divisional Police Station
by Gafar Edun
The resilient and progressive people of Ilara Yewa have once again reaffirmed their enduring identity, captured in the popular ethos, “ Ilara Ogudo, Alewilese,” through the successful construction and commissioning of a Divisional Police Station in the community.
This remarkable project, commissioned on 17th March, 2026, stands as a shining example of community-driven development. It was singlehandedly executed by renowned philanthropist, Mr. Abiola Oyebola, with the collaborative support of the Community Development Committee (CDC) and generous contributions both financial and material from indigenes of Ilara Yewa at home and in the diaspora.
The Divisional Police Station was officially commissioned by the Ogun State Commissioner of Police, CP Lanre Ogunlowo, PhD, who commended the people of Ilara for their proactive approach to security. He emphasized that the facility is not an instrument of harassment, but a strategic response to insecurity,aimed at strengthening surveillance and safeguarding lives, property, and business activities in the community . He further highlighted the importance of establishing a divisional police presence in border communities like Ilara Yewa , given their unique security challenges.
In his remarks, His Royal Majesty, Oba (Dr.) Mutiu Alani Adedimeji Oyede-Lawal, Sijuade AdunKunnu I, the Oloola of Ilara kingdom, lauded the exceptional generosity and commitment of Mr. Oyebola. The monarch described the project as a testament to the unity, resilience, and self-reliant spirit for which Ilara is widely known.
Ilara’s strategic position as a border town, often described as “one town, two countries”, was further underscored by the presence of the Police Commissioner from the Republic of Benin, who oversees the adjoining Ilara community on the Beninese side. He expressed delight at the development and stressed the need for enhanced cross-border security collaboration, pledging sustained cooperation between Nigeria and the Republic of Benin in tackling transnational crimes.
From the fact that this project is a self-help legacy, the people of Ilara have once again demonstrated their resilience, unity, and commitment to community-driven progress. However, as a border town with complex security and developmental needs, Ilara will require deliberate support from political actors and government institutions to facilitate necessary border projects to Ilara Yewa community.
Only through such collaboration can this “one town, two countries” community fully realize its potential in security, infrastructure, and cross-border development.
This landmark achievement remains a powerful reminder of what collective will, visionary leadership, and a strong community spirit can accomplish.
