The Igede Progressive Elites Caucus (IPECA) has vowed to remove all encumbrances to the development of the Igede nation, especially prostitution, child abuse and trafficking in and around Lagos state.
President of the union, Mr. Mike Alewu, in a review of the activities of IPECA for 2020, made available to Blueprint, Monday, described girl-child abuse as the worst set back undermining the genuine efforts of sons and daughters of Igede people of Benue state from taking a giant leap forward.
Mr Alewu who disclosed that two persons were cut in the very act of child-trafficking and child abuse in Lagos were arrested, prosecuted and “presently serving jail term,” said “some of the girls who are no longer interested in housemaid were reunited with their parents,” after it was discovered that they were taken away for menial jobs, prostitution and other heinous crimes.
“We will stand up for justice, freedom and against injustice. We have fought many injustices done against our people in 2020 and we must unite to fight more visible injustice if we must break out from retrogression”, he said.
Alewu called on the people to live an exemplary lifestyle of hard work and integrity, which is their heritage and look up to God for help, instead of getting involved in things that would jeopardise their quest for a better standard of living in Lagos and in Benue, their home state.
On plans to get the union involved actively in the service of their host community, Mr Alewu said:“We have written formally to the Lagos state government for recognition and acknowledgement of IPECA’s existence. Importantly, our monarch, the Ad’ Igede of Lagos, Dr Francis Ogbu, will be accorded such recognition as accorded other sojourners and traditional rulers in the state.”
He appreciated the media, particularly Blueprint and The Punch for always carrying positive reports on the activities of IPECA.
IPECA is an umbrella union of all Igede sons and daughters of Oju and Obi LGAs of Benue state and those in Cross River state
