Ikeja Computer Village Starts New Security Measures to Fight Crime

The Ikeja Computer Village has begun a new program to register all traders and workers using biometric data (like fingerprints or photos). This is to help reduce crime in the market. Along with this, they will also add more security steps, such as:

• Installing CCTV cameras to monitor the area.

• Setting up emergency alarm systems for quick response.

• Working more closely with the police and other security agencies.

Why This Is Happening

The leader of the market, Abisola Azeez (also called the Iyaloja), explained that this plan is part of bigger efforts to solve problems affecting businesses in the market. Some of these problems include:

• Fake or low-quality products being sold.

• Dishonest technicians who cheat customers.

• Frequent cases of phone theft.

The decision to improve security came after a recent incident that almost caused the Lagos State government to shut down the market. The market leaders asked the government to give them time to fix the issues so that honest traders would not suffer.

Under the new rules, only registered sellers will be allowed to work in the market. Each trader must display their ID card at their stall.

Abisola also said that street shops will have strict rules:

• Only plastic chairs, display glasses, and umbrellas will be allowed.

• Wooden stalls and open fires (like burning stoves) will be banned to prevent fires.

Market Leaders Support the Changes

Another leader, Adeniyi Olasoji (known as Baba Oja), said that recent crimes have hurt the market’s reputation. He believes the new security system will help make the Computer Village a well-organized and modern business center that can compete with other tech markets around the world.

He also mentioned that registration for legal traders will be completed in two months. After that, only approved sellers will be allowed to operate.

Other market leaders, including Prince Tony Nwakeze, Ralph Chibuzor, Ben Onuorah, Nofiu Akinsanya, and Ikani Tony, agreed that these changes are necessary to make the market safer and more professional.

More Upgrades for Better Security

Fidelix Ezeugwu, the Executive Secretary of the Ikeja Market Board, said the market now has a united leadership team with representatives from Nigeria’s four major ethnic groups. He stressed the importance of keeping accurate records to meet global business standards.

Other planned upgrades include:

• Walkie-talkies for better communication among security teams.

• Better street lighting.

• More CCTV cameras to watch over the market.

The goal is to make Ikeja Computer Village a top-class market, similar to famous business hubs like Dubai and Singapore.

Technicians Also Call for Better Security

Mr. Kehinde Apara, the President of the Association of Mobile Communication Device Technicians (AMCODET), has asked the Nigerian government to help install CCTV cameras in the market. He said the lack of security makes the market an easy target for criminals.

AMCODET has suggested placing solar-powered CCTV cameras at the market entrances to monitor people coming in and out.

New Rules for Phone Technicians

Apara also said that technicians will now require customers to prove they own a phone before unlocking or repairing it. This is to prevent thieves from bringing stolen phones to technicians.

He added that technicians need more training to spot security risks. He also called for better cooperation between security agencies, technicians, and market leaders to keep everyone safe.