In a resounding show of solidarity and comradeship, the Lagos State Branch of the Committee for the Defence of Human Rights (CDHR), on Tuesday paid a historic visit to the newly elected Chairman of Ikeja Local Government, Hon. Comrade Akeem Dauda (popularly known as Lagbaja), who has been in office for just fifteen days.
Led by the indefatigable and unshakable Lagos State Branch Chairman, Comrade Wale Ojo, alongside former Lagos State Branch Chairman and former National Secretary Comrade Gbenga Soloki, the delegation of CDHR executives and members were warmly received at the council secretariat in Ikeja.
Addressing the gathering, Comrade Wale Ojo urged the Chairman to lead with distinction, not just as a political office holder but as a veteran of the human rights struggle. He reminded him of his deep roots in the movement, recalling that Comrade Dauda once served as Secretary
of the Lagos Branch of CDHR. Ojo charged him to apply his social justice background and mass-based activism to serve the people of Ikeja with integrity and courage.
In his goodwill message, Comrade Gbenga Soloki congratulated the new Chairman, describing his ascension to office as a victory for the ideals of justice and people-centered governance. He emphasized that as a shining example from the human rights community, Comrade Dauda’s success or failure would reflect directly on the CDHR. Soloki called on him to remain a servant-leader who is accountable to the people at all times.
In his response, Hon. Comrade Akeem Dauda expressed deep gratitude to his “home organisation” for their solidarity, assuring them of his commitment to the principles and struggles that shaped his political journey. He recounted his days as a fearless student activist at the Federal Polytechnic, Ilaro, where he was expelled for participating in the June 12, 1993 democracy struggles with some other notable comrades who are still in the barricades till date.
Comrade Dauda reaffirmed his belief in the CDHR vision and pledged to make grassroots empowerment a priority. As part of his commitments and in the spirit of the recently celebrated International Youths Day, he promised to engage more young people in skills acquisition and sustainable livelihood projects.
The event was graced by the Vice Chairman of Ikeja Local Government, the Chairman’s Chief of Staff, and other notable council officials. This, further underscored the unity between the grassroots and the human rights movement.
For the CDHR Lagos Branch, it was more than a courtesy call, it was a reaffirmation of the bond between activism and governance, a reminder that the struggle for justice and people’s rights do not end at the barricades, but must continue in the corridors of power.
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