Hon. Ode-Idahosa Calls for Ban on Rogue Community Development Associations

By Editor

Hon. Amb. Sir JP Hamzaosa Ode-Idahosa, has issued a passionate plea to Governor Senator Monday Okpebholo and the revered Oba of Benin Kingdom, Oba Ewuare II, to ban the operations of Community Development Associations (CDAs) across the state. According to Ode-Idahosa, these groups have deviated from their original purpose and now pose a significant threat to peace, progress, and unity in Edo State.

Ode-Idahosa alleged that CDAs have become exploitative, engaging in land grabbing, unlawful levies, intimidation of developers and investors, and even violence within communities. He lamented that despite previous efforts to curb their excesses, many CDAs have resurfaced under new names, continuing their illegal activities.

To address this issue, Ode-Idahosa recommended:

1. Issuance of an executive order banning CDA activities statewide, backed by strict enforcement.
2. Arrest and prosecution of CDA leaders engaged in land racketeering and community disruption.
3. Empowerment of traditional institutions to reclaim control of customary land administration.
4. Youth sensitization to discourage involvement in CDA-related violence.
5. Establishment of a special task force to monitor compliance across all 18 local government areas.

Ode-Idahosa warned that the continued existence of CDAs would stagnate the state’s economic growth, damage its reputation, and discourage investors. He concluded with a rallying call, emphasizing the need to defend the dignity of Edo State’s land and uphold the authority of traditional leadership.