CITIZENS COMPASS—The Secretary-General, Nigerians in Diaspora Organisation (NIDO) African Continental, Sir JP Hamzaosa Ode-Idahosa, on Sunday, called for the immediate ban of the Community Development Associations (CDAs) in Edo State.
The political commentator appealed to the Executive Governor of the State, Monday Okpebholo, and the highly revered Oba of Benin Kingdom, His Royal Majesty, Omo N’Oba N’Edo Uku Akpolokpolo, Oba Ewuare II, to take immediate action in banning the CDAs operations in the State.
He disclosed this in a statement personally signed by him.
According to him, “These CDAs originally intended to foster grassroots development, have deviated from their purpose and evolved into disruptive elements, undermining peace, progress, and unity in local communities, especially in the Edo South senatorial district.
“The activities of these CDAs have become highly exploitative, characterized by land grabbing, unlawful levies, intimidation of developers and investors, and fostering of violence within communities,”
Ode-Idahosa noted that despite previous attempts by past administrations to curb their excesses, many CDAs have resurfaced under different names, continuing their illegal extortion, engaging in youth militarization, and interfering with traditional land authorities and legitimate property owners.
He stressed that their actions are not only harming community harmony but are also driving away local and foreign investors, stagnating development, and damaging the reputation of Edo State.
“We cannot allow these self-serving associations to operate like parallel governments in our communities. Their continued existence is a threat to the future of our people and state, he stated.”
“An executive order banning all CDA activities statewide with legal backing and enforcement support.
“Immediate arrest and prosecution of known CDA leaders involved in land racketeering and community disruption.
“Empowerment of traditional institutions under the Oba of Benin to take full control of customary land administration, as was historically the case.
“Sensitization of youths on lawful engagement in community service, discouraging their recruitment into CDA-related violence.
“Establishment of a special task force to monitor and ensure compliance across the 18 local government areas.
“Hon. Ode-Idahosa concluded by calling on the people of Edo State to unite and support this call for peace, order, and sustainable development.
“The time for silence is over. Let us defend the dignity of our land and uphold the authority of our traditional leadership. Edo State must not be held hostage by lawless groups hiding under the banner of community development.” He added.
