A few days ago, I came across an encouraging update: the honorable member representing my constituency has commenced the construction of a new police post. This development is not only commendable, but it also affirms the findings from my 2022 urban renewal proposal for the Kudeti area.
Growing up in this neighborhood, we witnessed repeated waves of insecurity, especially attacks linked to the notorious “One Million Boys” and other gangs. It wasn’t until the death of Biola Ebila in July 2020, during a violent confrontation with a rival group, that relative calm returned to the area. But the scars of insecurity remain.
When I began my urban renewal project, data revealed a striking reality: the stretch from Molete through Yejide, Community Grammar School, Ilupeju, Kudeti, with spurs reaching Agbongbon, Idi-Arere, and down to Bode, is home to over 1,000 families. Yet, these neighborhoods are currently expected to rely solely on the Idi-Aro and Sanyo police divisions for security coverage.
The construction of this new police post is, therefore, not just timely, it is a critical enhancement to the area’s security architecture. However, this move also brings to the fore previous failed attempts. For instance, the Adeyemo/Osungbade community once initiated a police post project that remains incomplete despite interventions, including cash donations by Hon. Dapo Lam Adesina.
But beyond the need to increase the number of police posts under existing divisions, there’s a pressing call to rethink their design and functionality. It’s time we moved away from the intimidating, closed-off structures of the past and toward user-friendly facilities that foster positive relationships between officers and the communities they serve.
Although the design of the newly proposed police post has yet to be made public, I strongly hope it considers key improvements. There must be provisions for shaded, covered waiting areas for civilians, which are often neglected. This lack of comfort not only discourages public engagement but can also become grounds for harassment.
Moreover, overreliance on artificial ventilation and lighting compromises sustainability. My design proposals in 2022 focused on addressing these very issues by incorporating passive design strategies that enhance comfort while minimizing energy use.
While every design can evolve, we must start ensuring that these public facilities are not only functional but also sustainable and community-friendly, from their form and façade to the spaces within.
Idris Animasaun
Architect and Social Change Advocate
