To speak of Ipara Remo is to speak of a town with a proud history. It is a community built on courage, culture, education and service. Long before modern political boundaries were created, Ipara had already become a peaceful settlement through the vision and leadership of Oguola, one of its earliest settlers. The values of unity, hard work and communal living established in those early years have continued to define the town.
Over the years, Ipara has become one of the most respected communities in Remo land. Though not one of Ogun State’s populous towns, it has produced outstanding men and women who have distinguished themselves in education, public service, journalism, culture and governance.
Among them is the late Jimi Solanke, the celebrated actor, folklorist and cultural ambassador whose lifelong work preserved Yoruba culture through music, storytelling and theatre. His legacy continues to inspire generations.
Another distinguished son is Aremo Dr. Yemi Ogunbiyi OFR, one of Nigeria’s most respected scholars, journalists, authors and administrators. Through his contributions to education, publishing and public service, he has helped shape national conversations and brought honour to Ipara and Ogun State.
The story of Ipara would also be incomplete without the late Chief Micheal Soyebo Sowole, a respected legislator, diplomat and public servant who served during the progressive era of Chief Obafemi Awolowo. His career reflected integrity, discipline and selfless service.
That is why it is painful that the town is now making headlines for the wrong reason.
The recent abduction of five students of Gateway ICT Polytechnic, Saapade, after armed men attacked a private hostel along Paraga Road has left the community in shock.
According to reports, the gunmen stormed the hostel late at night, fired shots to scare residents and escaped with the students. Since then, fear has replaced the peace for which Ipara has long been known.
Parents are worried. Residents are anxious. Students who should be concentrating on lectures and examinations are now thinking about their safety.
Security is the foundation of education. Without it, learning becomes difficult.
This tragedy is more than a security challenge. It is also a test of leadership.
When people are faced with a crisis, they naturally look up to their leaders for reassurance. They want to know that those entrusted with public office understand their fears and are doing everything possible to restore normalcy.
Many residents expected a stronger public response from Governor Dapo Abiodun. No one doubts that security agencies are working behind the scenes, but leadership is also about visibility. A visit to the community, a public address or regular updates would reassure families that government is fully engaged.
People judge leaders not only by what they do, but also by how they communicate during difficult times.
The same expectation applies at the grassroots.
As chairman of Remo North Local Government, Hon. Muyiwa Sodade occupies the closest elective office to the people. In moments like this, residents expect their local government to visit affected families, engage community leaders and keep the public informed. Such gestures may not immediately solve the problem, but they show that the community is not standing alone.
It is commendable that the councillor representing Ipara Ward, Ayodeji Dada, appealed for calm and assured residents that security agencies were on top of the situation. More voices like this help strengthen public confidence.
The incident also comes at a time when Ogun State is gradually moving towards another election cycle.
Soon, the people of Ipara, like every other community across the state, will return to the polls. Every vote carries equal value, whether it comes from a village or a city.
Communities rarely forget how they were treated during difficult moments. They remember who stood with them, who listened and who gave them hope.
Leadership begins long before campaign season. Those seeking higher office must understand that people are watching not only campaign promises but also how leaders respond when fear knocks on their doors.
Many Nigerians still remember the abduction of schoolchildren in Oriire, Oyo State. The incident attracted national attention, but Governor Seyi Makinde maintained visible engagement throughout the crisis, regularly assuring parents that every effort was being made until the children were safely rescued.
Today, the people of Ipara are looking for that same sense of urgency and reassurance.
Ipara deserves to be remembered for its proud history, not for insecurity.
It deserves to be known for Oguola, whose leadership laid the foundation of the community; for Jimi Solanke, who projected Yoruba culture to the world; for Aremo Dr. Yemi Ogunbiyi OFR; for the late Chief Micheal Soyebo Sowole; for Mr. Dipo Onabanjo; for Prince Adewole Sowole; and for the many sons and daughters who continue to make the town proud.
The kidnapping of these students should serve as a wake-up call. Security agencies must intensify efforts to rescue the victims, governments at every level must remain proactive and communities must continue supporting lawful efforts to protect lives and property.
Above all, this is not the time for politics or blame.
The people of Ipara are asking for only one thing: the safe and unconditional return of the abducted students.
Nothing will bring greater relief than seeing these young people reunited with their families. Until then, Ipara waits with hope, prayer and the expectation that leadership will rise to the occasion.
Kehinde Micheal Adeleye, ANIPR is a Lagos Based Journalist, Public and communication personnel
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