How Baale, CSP Bello Ajao Changed the Security Narrative in Oloota

A quiet transformation is unfolding in Oloota, Abule Egba, Lagos, where a community once overshadowed by insecurity is gradually reclaiming its peace and sense of normalcy.

For High Chief Ajibose Ebelamu Daniel, the Baale of Oloota Kingdom under Agbado Oke-Odo LCDA, the change is not only visible but deeply personal. Reflecting on the community’s journey, his words convey both relief and pride.

“Since the deployment of the Police Tactical Team to our area, we have enjoyed tremendous support,” he said. “Their presence has brought much-needed relief. Area boys, hoodlums, and drug users have been curtailed, and whenever we call on the officers, they respond promptly.”

The Tactical Team, led by CSP Bello Ajao, has played a central role in stabilizing security and rebuilding public trust within the community.

Today, residents speak of a community that can finally breathe again. According to the Baale, what began as a modest appeal for a police post has evolved into a far more impactful security arrangement.

“Initially, we only requested a police post or station. But to the glory of God, we now have a Tactical Command, which exceeds our expectations,” he noted.

A Troubled Past

Oloota’s current sense of calm contrasts sharply with its recent past. Recalling events from 2018, when he assumed leadership, the Baale described a community gripped by fear and insecurity.

“There was a time you could not step out after 7:30 p.m.,” he said. “Area boys dominated the environment. At one point, a police officer declined deployment here, stating that Oloota was unsafe.”

That moment, he explained, became a turning point fueling his resolve to change the narrative.

The Struggle for Change

Determined to improve security, the Baale embarked on sustained advocacy and stakeholder engagement. Through strategic connections and persistence, approval was eventually secured between 2019 and 2020 for a formal police presence.

However, the journey was far from smooth.

“With the support of the community, we secured a location, but we faced numerous challenges both political and physical,” he said. “There were attempts to frustrate the project, including petitions questioning the suitability of the site.”

Despite the resistance, the community remained resolute, constructing the facility under difficult conditions and overcoming opposition.

A New Era of Security

Nearly a year after the Tactical Command became operational, its impact is evident.

“Today, residents can sleep peacefully,” the Baale said. “There have been no complaints from indigenes or non-indigenes. There is a general sense of satisfaction across the community.”

He emphasized that the success is not solely attributable to the police but also to strong community participation. Residents, Community Development Associations (CDAs), and other stakeholders have actively supported the initiative.

“We are contributing to ensure the officers have what they need to function effectively,” he added. “Many people have made pledges and are fulfilling them. Just recently, I received additional contributions toward the project.”

Nevertheless, he acknowledged that sustaining the progress will require continued effort.

Security as a Shared Responsibility

While commending the Tactical Team under CSP Bello Ajao, the Baale stressed that security remains a collective responsibility.

“My message to residents is simple: give maximum support to the police,” he said. “Without community cooperation, it will be difficult for them to achieve their mandate.”

He also urged vigilance and timely reporting of suspicious activities.

“There is a popular saying: ‘If you see something, say something.’ We must all embrace it and act accordingly,” he said.

A Model for Community Policing

The Oloota experience stands as a compelling example of effective community policing, demonstrating what can be achieved when leadership, citizen engagement, and institutional support align.

From a locality once avoided by law enforcement officers to one now enjoying relative peace, Oloota’s journey underscores the value of persistence, collaboration, and grassroots leadership.

For the Baale and residents alike, the transformation is more than a success story it is proof that meaningful change is possible.

As the community continues to build on these gains, one thing is clear: in Oloota, safety is no longer a distant aspiration but an emerging reality.