Tensions mount as Ifeoluwa Iloye rejects new CDA inauguration invite

By Kingsley Ikechukwu

A storm is brewing in Iloye Baba Mushin, Sango, Ado-Odo/Ota Local Government Area, Ogun State.

Ogun State, located in the southwestern region of Nigeria, is known for its vibrant cultural heritage and economic significance.

It is bordered by Lagos State to the south, Oyo and Osun States to the north, Ondo State to the east, and the Republic of Benin to the west, making it strategically positioned as a gateway both to other parts of Nigeria and to neighboring countries.

The capital of Ogun State is Abeokuta, a city with historical landmarks, such as the Olumo Rock, offering a glimpse into the rich history and traditions of the area.

The state is also recognized for its educational institutions and industries, contributing significantly to Nigeria’s development.

According to Diaspora digital media (DDM) corespondents in the State, the crisis involves the rejection of an invitation by Ifeoluwa Iloye CDA to attend a new CDA’s inauguration.

This decision has caused tension among community members and stakeholders who describe the action as disappointing and divisive.

The controversial stance emerged during Ifeoluwa Iloye CDA’s monthly general meeting held on April 6, 2025.

Leaders of the CDA unanimously agreed not to participate in the new CDA’s formal inauguration.

Their justification was the lack of a formal invitation from the organizing body of the newly created association.

However, many residents view this as an excuse and call it an act of unnecessary hypocrisy.

Community Development Associations, also known as CDAs, function as grassroots governance structures across Nigeria.

They serve as self-help platforms to provide basic infrastructure where government presence is lacking or limited.

CDAs are involved in constructing roads, bridges, drainages, culverts, and providing electricity, solar, and street lighting.

They also prioritize community security, working together to protect lives and properties without depending on government intervention.

By Nigerian CDA regulations, new associations can be formed when a community exceeds 50 houses.

This rule ensures efficient management and fair representation for growing areas and expanding populations.

The formation of new CDAs is not only legal but encouraged for effective grassroots governance and development.

Ifeoluwa Iloye CDA was initially formed after breaking away from Ilari Ogun CDA.

Located in Iloye Baba Mushin area, it has grown steadily in size and structure.

Over the years, it has seen the leadership of at least seven different chairmen.

Today, the community under the CDA contains more than 450 residential buildings.

Despite this growth, efforts to further divide the community into new CDAs met strong resistance.

Key opposition figures include former chairman Engr. Shodipo Joseph and councilorship aspirant Hon. Dr. Lawrence Ikechukwu.

Some secretaries and ex-officio members also opposed the division despite rising calls from residents.

Residents organized a referendum to test public opinion about forming a new CDA.

The majority voted in favor of creating the new CDA to address local developmental needs.

The new body has been named ILERI Ifeoluwa Iloye CDA and is scheduled for inauguration.

The date for the inauguration has been fixed for April 27, 2025.

The refusal of Ifeoluwa Iloye CDA to attend has drawn widespread condemnation.

Residents argue that since the new CDA was birthed from the original body, support is expected.

A community leader described the decision as selfish and politically motivated, not in the community’s best interest.

“The same people who broke from Ilari Ogun CDA now reject others doing the same,” one resident said.

“This is double standard and must stop if we truly care about progress,” he added.

Another resident urged unity and collaboration regardless of the split between CDAs.

“We are still one community, working towards the same goal of development and peace,” she said.

Many congratulated the birth of the new CDA and urged mutual respect among all community leaders.

Stakeholders believe that grassroots development will flourish only when politics is set aside.

As the inauguration approaches, hopes remain that both CDAs will eventually work together for community benefit.

Long live ILERI Ifeoluwa Iloye CDA.

Long live Iloye West ACDC.

Long live Ado-Odo/Ota Local Government.

The community now looks forward to April 27 as a fresh start toward inclusive local development.

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