Earlier on Friday, November 22, 2024, a significant rally was held in Sagamu local government area of Ogun State, where the National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN) Sagamu Branch in collaboration with the Remo Chapter of the National Association of Scrap and Waste Dealers of Nigeria (NASWDEN), mobilized to sensitize cart pushers about their operations and address growing concerns regarding illegal activities associated with their trade.
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The rally commenced at Coca-Cola junction and spanned through major streets, including Akarigbo Road, Sabo Sagamu Market, Ewusi Road, Awolowo Market and Isale Ojumele, culminating at Isote Junction. The purpose of the event was to engage cart pushers in a dialogue regarding their conduct and to establish a framework for improved interactions with the community.
Opening the program, Comr. Oluwole Aduroja, Coordinator of the National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN) Sagamu Branch, emphasized the urgent need for the reform of cart-pushing activities that have led to insecurity in the area. He highlighted troubling reports of thefts linked to some cart pushers, including stealing valuable property like pots, iron gates, and windows. “These actions can lead to cultural disputes between the cart pushers, their association and the community,” Aduroja warned. He reassured residents that their concerns have been heard and that strategies have been put in place to distinguish legitimate members of the association.
In a show of unity, Okuwaseyi Oluwafemisi (Baba Kofo), Chairman of NASWDEN Remo Chapter, expressed gratitude to the youth for their partnership and commitment to ensuring a safe environment. He announced new guidelines for cart pushers, which include operating hours from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm and mandatory uniforms for all members. In his address, he stated, “any cart pusher who does not adhere to these guidelines will be barred from working in our community.”
Prince Tunde urged the public to report any illegal activities conducted by unauthorized cart pushers, providing emergency hotlines for citizens to call for quick intervention. He emphasized, “Justice will be served for anyone found engaging in illegal conduct.”
The rally saw a large turnout, with NYCN executives, Remo NASWDEN executives and members, and a vibrant crowd of youths advocating for safer communities in Sagamu. Among the attendees were notable figures including General Secretary Comr. Soyombo Abiola, PRO Comr. Adeyinka Ashaye, Welfare Officer Asiwaju Abidemi Bidex, and Financial Secretary Comr. Abimbola Afusat Ologe.
The event marks a crucial step towards fostering cooperation between the youth, cart pushers, the association and the community while addressing the pressing issue of security concerns in Sagamu.