By O.V.Collins, Obende Deborah, and Osaro Matthew
The Ekosodin Vigilante Network has expressed its disappointment in not receiving any support from the current Vice-Chancellor of the University of Benin, Professor Lillian Salami, and the university’s management. These sentiments were conveyed on Thursday, September 21, 2023, at the vigilante secretariat during a courtesy visit by ACJ UNIBEN.
CJ Odabi Collins, the President of the Association, led members of the executive team, which included CJ Osaro Matthew, the Vice President, and CJ Obende Deborah, the Secretary-General. He extended his gratitude to Mr. Kamoru Osayabamwen Karimu, the Commander General of Ekosodin Vigilante Network, for hosting them and reaffirmed ACJ’s dedication to collaborating with the neighborhood watch. The President stated that their aim is to keep UNIBEN students residing in Ekosodin informed about security concerns and serve as a bridge between the group and the students.
Lefties Osagie Aikihimie, the Vice-Chairman of the committee in charge of Vigilante, spoke on behalf of the Commander General. He expressed appreciation for ACJ UNIBEN’s efforts and their willingness to partner in enhancing the security of lives and property in the area. He also highlighted how the presence of the neighborhood watch has transformed Ekosodin from “the most dangerous place to live in” to “a safer place to live,” effectively addressing issues like cultism and other social vices in recent years.
While commending the achievements of the group, the chairman raised concerns about the challenges they face. He stated, “What we are expecting from the school authority is not forthcoming. The only contribution we have gotten from the school so far are those bikes, which we got some years ago. The current VC has not contributed a dime to this job.”
He also expressed frustration over the reluctance of some students to adhere to community rules and the embarrassment they face while collecting annual dues. He urged ACJ UNIBEN to convey these concerns to both the university’s management and the students. He reiterated the group’s commitment to collaborating with ACJ UNIBEN to maintain peace and security in Ekosodin Community.
On behalf of the executives and the association, CJ Collins expressed gratitude to Ekosodin Vigilante for their relentless efforts in combating crime and social vices in the community. He pledged that their partnership with the Association of Campus Journalists, University of Benin, would further enhance the security of lives and property in Ekosodin Community.
UNIBEN Vice-Chancellor Has Not Contributed a Dime to This Job – Ekosodin Vigilante Network
