In a decisive move to fortify regional security, the Executive Chairman of Somolu Local Government, Hon. Lateef Ashimi, joined the Lagos State Commissioner of Police, CP Olohundare Moshood Jimoh, on Monday to officially commission the operational headquarter of the EKO Strike Force.
The ceremony, attended by the Executive & Legislative Council Members, mark the transformation of the former Bashua Police Post, originally constructed during the administration of Hon. Abdul Hamed Salawu (Dullar), into a high-level tactical hub.
Chairman Ashimi revealed that security remains the cornerstone of his administration.
“With the permanent presence of this tactical squad, public order in Somolu is non-negotiable,” he stated. He also urged residents to cooperate fully with law enforcement while issuing a stern warning to criminal elements that the full weight of the law would be upheld.
During the unveiling, CP Olohundare lauded the council’s leadership for providing the facility, noting that the EKO Strike Force has already proven its efficacy.
Within the past year, the unit successfully recovered 111 illegal firearms, a milestone the Commissioner described as vital to the Command’s ongoing battle against violent crime.
“The headquarter, formerly based in Surulere, has now moved to Somolu to provide rapid access to both the Lagos Mainland and the Island. This strategic intervention team was initiated to complement the Rapid Response Squad (RRS) rather than compete with it,” he said.
Citing the efforts of the State Government, he stated that the unit has grown from five patrol vehicles to 17, and was recently bolstered by three Armoured Personnel Carriers (APCs) approved by the Inspector-General of Police for high-risk operations.
In a thoughtful vote of thanks, the Secretary to the Local Government, Hon. Ayo Coker, commended the synergy between the council and the police command, while Rt. Hon. Oyeyiola drew the curtain of the unveiling with heartfelt prayers.
Following the inauguration, traditional rulers, market leaders (CDC/CDA), and youth leaders joined security personnel, including the LNSC and NSCDC, for a confidence-building patrol throughout the community.
