The Chairman of Ifelodun Local Government Council in Kwara State, Hon. Femi Yusuf, has named a street in Igbaja after the late Balogun of Igbaja, Chief Lukman Jagun, in recognition of his heroic contributions to community security and development.

A statement by Abdulquadri Jimba, Chief Press Secretary to the council chairman, confirmed the tribute on Sunday, alongside a N1 million donation to Jagun's family. The Balogun, who led a local vigilante group, was killed in October 2024 while attempting to rescue four kidnapped market women. The victims had been abducted by gunmen along the Igbaja-Oke Ode road in Ifelodun LGA as they returned from a weekly farm market.

According to Arewa PUNCH , Jagun was shot dead during a rescue operation in the forest near Igbaja, a day before the naming ceremony of his newborn child. His leadership in security efforts had made him a prominent figure in the community's fight against banditry.

Speaking during the event, Yusuf described the late Balogun "as a true warrior who stood gallantly against non-state actors threatening the peace of Kwara South and beyond.

"This gesture is a symbolic recognition of Jagun's legacy of sacrifice, courage, and commitment to the safety and progress of his people," he said.

"The death of Jagun cost us dearly, and that's why we found it essential to celebrate his life and immortalise his name. He lived a life of purpose, sacrifice, and commitment to protecting our community,

"In tightening our security structure, we have boosted the welfare of our local hunters and vigilante groups with health insurance and additional 60 per cent increments of their salaries and we have recruited more of them to strengthen their operations," he added.

In his remarks, the President of the Igbaja Progressive Union, Dr. Toyin Alabi praised the chairman's foresight and acknowledged the continuous support of Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq to the Igbaja community.

He lauded the local government's gesture as timely and impactful in the ongoing fight against insecurity.

At the event, the Commissioner of Police, Mr. Adekimi Ojo commended the local hunters and security agencies for their collaborative efforts in maintaining peace. He added that the late Balogun Lukman worked diligently with formal security forces, leaving behind a strong legacy of bravery and vigilance.

Representing the Elese of Igbaja, Oba Ahmed Arepo Babalola, a palace delegate, conveyed the monarch's appreciation to the local government for "honouring a worthy son of the soil."

He acknowledged Balogun Lukman's instrumental role in combating insecurity and prayed for divine forgiveness and mercy upon his soul.

In his remarks on behalf of the bereaved family, Mr. Kehinde Adeoti, a brother of the deceased, expressed their heartfelt gratitude to the chairman and the entire council leadership for the recognition and support accorded the family, especially during their time of grief.

Arewa PUNCH reports that among the dignitaries present at the event were the Chief of Staff to the Chairman, Chief Ademola Zubair; HOD Works, Engr. Ayinde Badmus; Coordinator, Kwara Joint Security Watch, Elder Oyin Zubair; Igbaja Ward I Councillor, Hon. Abdulahi Fatimoh; Hon. Lawal Olarewaju David; Hon. Bamigbade Beatrice Oluwasheun; Hon. Jodi Folorunsho, and several others.