In a decisive and commendable move to restore calm and strengthen unity, the Honourable Commissioner for the Lagos State Ministry of Tertiary Education, Honourable Tolani Sule, alongside the proactive management of Lagos State University of Education (LASUED), led by the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Bidemi Bilkis Lafiaji-Okuneye, on Monday, 2nd March 2026, embarked on strategic courtesy visits to key traditional rulers and community leaders in Oto and Ijanikin.
Royal Engagement with the Oloto of Oto-Awori Kingdom
The delegation first visited the palace of His Royal Majesty, Oba Aina Josiah Olanrewaju Ilemobade Ikuyamiku I, the Oloto of Oto-Awori Kingdom. Discussions centered on restoring peace following the unfortunate brawl that erupted on Saturday, 28th February 2026, involving some youths from the host communities.
The incident, which created anxiety among staff and students of LASUED, prompted swift intervention by the Lagos State Government to ensure stability and safety.
Speaking during the meeting, Honourable Tolani Sule stressed that community security is a shared responsibility. He emphasized that when a community is unsafe, everyone is affected. He appealed to traditional institutions, parents, and stakeholders to take deliberate steps toward restoring harmony, noting the growing concerns of parents over the safety of their children and wards.
The Commissioner sympathized with the communities over properties lost during the unrest and commiserated with LASUED management on the tragic loss of a staff member and injuries sustained by some students. He reiterated that the state government strongly condemns such incidents.
In his response, Oba Ikuyamiku I described the crisis as deeply unfortunate, noting that it disrupted numerous activities within the community. He underscored the importance of proper parental guidance, reaffirmed his support for government efforts, and called on security personnel to remain civil and professional in the discharge of their duties.
Visit to the Onijanikin of Ijanikin Kingdom
The team also paid a courtesy visit to His Royal Majesty, Oba Momodu Afolabi Ashafa, the Onijanikin of Ijanikin Kingdom.
Expressing deep sorrow over the incident, Oba Ashafa described the crisis as heartbreaking and assured residents that necessary measures are being taken to prevent any recurrence. He confirmed that security personnel are actively pursuing those responsible for the disturbance.
Strengthening Institutional and Local Government Collaboration
Later the same day, the Vice-Chancellor hosted the Executive Chairman of Oto-Awori Local Council Development Area, Honourable Kareem Azeez Abiodun, alongside other LCDA officials who visited to commiserate with the university management and express solidarity.
The Chairman assured the university of the LCDA’s commitment to restoring lasting peace and revealed that proactive steps are underway to apprehend perpetrators and implement preventive measures against future occurrences.
Professor Lafiaji-Okuneye commended the Chairman and his team for their timely visit and collaboration. She urged community leaders to intensify sensitization efforts among residents and reinforce vigilance.
“If you see something, say something,” the Vice-Chancellor emphasized, highlighting the importance of collective responsibility in safeguarding lives and property.
Government’s Commitment to Peace and Stability
The engagements underscore the unwavering commitment of the administration of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu to ensuring safety, stability, and harmonious coexistence between tertiary institutions and their host communities.
The Lagos State Government, LASUED management, traditional institutions, and local authorities have reaffirmed their shared resolve to maintain peace, strengthen collaboration, and protect the educational environment for students and staff alike.
See pictures below
Signed:
Public Affairs Unit
Lagos State University of Education (LASUED)
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