Senator representing Ogun West, Adeola Olamilekan Yayi, has issued a stern warning to officers of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), urging them to desist from harassing and killing residents of border communities engaging in legitimate businesses.
Speaking during the second edition of his town hall meeting and mega empowerment programme held at AUD Primary School, Imeko-Afon Local Government Area on Friday, Senator Yayi said it was unjust for citizens to be punished simply because of their geographical location.
“Customs should stop killing our people for doing their legitimate business. It is not our making that we have border in Ogun State, it is by divine grace. Customs officers should stop harassing our people for doing business at the borderline,” the Senator stated emphatically.
He emphasized that the presence of the Benin Republic border in the region was not man-made but a historical and divine alignment, and should not be a basis for constant conflict with security agencies.
“We have told them to reopen all filling stations so that our people can continue their businesses without fear. These are Nigerians trying to make ends meet—not criminals.”
The Senator also assured residents of Imeko-Afon that the much-anticipated Rounder-Olohunda-Moriwi-Ilara Road would soon be completed, a development expected to boost commerce and movement in the area.
In a major empowerment initiative, Senator Yayi empowered no fewer than 4,000 youths, artisans, and market women who had undergone various skill acquisition trainings. He disclosed that the programme was implemented in collaboration with institutions such as the Federal Cooperative College Ibadan, Michael Imoudu Labour Centre, Federal College of Fishery and Marine Technology, SMEDAN, NCAM, and the National Productivity Centre.
Items distributed to the beneficiaries included 10 mini buses, 37 tricycles, 50 motorcycles, 60 welding machines, 80 deep freezers, 28 generators, 61 vulcanizing machines, and 399 sewing machines. Others include 12 embroidery machines, 85 hair dressing equipment, 28 barbing kits, 28 makeup kits, 168 catering equipment, 542 school bags, 1,428 exercise books, 4,285 textbooks, 239 bricklaying cash grants, and 100 entrepreneurship cash grants.
Addressing the gathering, Senator Yayi reiterated his commitment to delivering effective representation that supports the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
“As happened during the last empowerment exercise, I have facilitated the requisite training of over 20,000 youths, men and women in the area of ICT and various skills acquisition programmes in preparation for empowerment. This is part of my duty to ensure that the people of Ogun West thrive economically,” he said.
He added that selection for the training and empowerment was devoid of political bias, as trade groups were prioritized and major stakeholders were consulted for nominations.
“Let me make it clear that these beneficiaries were selected without partisan considerations. What matters is lifting our people out of poverty and giving them a means to prosper,” the Senator explained.
He cautioned the beneficiaries not to sell off the empowerment items for quick cash, urging them instead to make use of the tools for long-term personal and economic growth.
“I urge you to make use of what you’ve been given. Don’t trade them away for unproductive frivolities. These items are your launchpads to independence and income generation.”
Senator Yayi reaffirmed his dedication to providing more dividends of democracy to his constituents, pledging continued service for the benefit of Ogun West, the state, and the nation at large.
