Hoodlums in major hot spots in Ibadan, the Oyo State capital, have agreed to a ceasefire following an appeal by their family heads and the commandant of the state security network, code-named Amotekun.
The state governor, Seyi Makinde, had set up a committee last week, which included security agencies and the family heads in Ibadan North East and Ibadan South-East local governments to mediate between government and the hoodlums.
Leaders of the hoodlums in Ibadan North East local government are Dada Oto, aka Parkaging; and S O J, 350 boys. In Ibadan South East the leaders are Kabiru Ojuyobo, Baba Ele, 420 boys, Alhaja Sakiratu Tinko, and Iya gbogbo Awon boys.
The gangs operate in Odo Osun, Labiran Beere, Esu Awele, Ileba, Oja Oba, Alagolo, Lion base, Omiyale, Kobomoje, Ita ege, Eleta, Agbongbon, Tewogbade, Arapaja, Isale Ijebu, Sogoye, Akobi, Popo, Asuni, and Bonfoto.
The convener of the event and leader of the Mogajis, Chief Wale Oladoja, described the move as “a right step in the right direction”.
The State commandant of Amotekun in the state, Col. Olayinka Olayanju (rtd) in his remarks said the corps adopted dialogue to ensure the hoodlums are rehabilitated.