…as EPID honours Ikorodu dignitaries

By Matthew Johnson

It was an atmosphere of intellect, culture and community pride on Tuesday as Eminent Persons of Ikorodu Division (EPID) under the leadership of Sir Engineer Rasheed Shoderu and the former Head of Service, Lagos State Alhaji Babatunde Rotinwa as the Chairman of EPID Liaison Council held the year 2026 General Assembly at the Ikorodu Town Hall, drawing respected traditional rulers, political leaders, professionals and notable sons and daughters of Ikorodu Division.

The General Assembly which many attendees described as both historic and enlightening, featured a public lecture titled “Diversity and Inclusive Governance in a Democratic Dispensation: Setting Boundaries and Weighing the Pros and Cons.”

The lecture was delivered by renowned scholar and former Executive Director of the Centre for Advanced Social Science, Professor Liasu Adele Jinadu whose presentation captivated guests throughout the session.

Speaking extensively on the realities of governance in a democratic society, Professor Adele examined the place of diversity, inclusion, leadership balance and societal cohesion. His lecture, delivered with depth, clarity and practical examples, earned repeated applause from the audience as he highlighted both the opportunities and challenges associated with inclusive governance.

Guests at the event commended the lecturer for what many described as a brilliant, insightful and intellectually stimulating presentation.

The gathering also featured the presentation of awards to distinguished individuals and organisations that have contributed immensely to the growth and development of Ikorodu Division. Among those recognised were MHR Honourable Babajimi Benson, Member, LAHA Honourable Gbolahan Ogunleye, Honourable Moshood Aro Abiodun, former Executive Chairmen within the division, Malens Medicare, Chairman, Homat Group of Schools, Alhaji Tairu Amusa, alongside other notable personalities whose efforts have positively shaped the community over the years.

The royal presence at the event further underscored its significance as the Ayangburen of Ikorodu, Oba Kabir Adewale Shotobi, led other traditional rulers from across the division to the ceremony such as the Ranodu of Imota, Oba Dr. Ajibade Agoro, Adeboruwa of Igbogbo, Oba Semiudeen Orimadegun Kasali, Sekumade of Ipakodo, Oba Bashir Sotonwa, Obateru of Egbin Kingdom, Oba Akeem Oyebo to mention a few.

Also in attendance was the MHR representing Ikorodu federal constituency, Honourable Babajimi Benson, alongside other political leaders, community stakeholders and prominent residents of Ikorodu Division.

Beyond the lectures and awards, the event served as a moment of reflection on the future of Ikorodu Division, while also celebrating individuals and institutions committed to the progress, unity and development of the community.

The well-attended programme ended on a high note, with many guests describing it as a memorable and impactful gathering worthy of the status and vision of EPID.