In celebration of World Clean Up Day, kakalistiq.com reports that a partnership between the Federation of Epe Division Students (FEDSA), the office of the member representing Epe Constituency I at the Lagos State Youth Parliament, and local media outlet Kakalistiq Media saw youths come together to clean up major roads in Epe on Saturday 21st September, 2024.
The event highlighted the need for intentional environmental sanitation, with participants condemning those who mocked volunteers for their efforts in improving the community.
Hon. Olumuyiwa Odunare, who represents Epe Constituency I at the Lagos State Youth Parliament, also weighed in on the issue. “Mocking those who volunteer for community service is harmful to both the community and its future leaders,” he said.
“We should be encouraging and supporting these young people. The clean-up has so many benefits—improving health, preserving our environment, and instilling responsibility in the younger generation. When we ridicule their efforts, we only push them away from doing good for the community.”
He emphasized the significance of the exercise, especially for the younger generation. “This is about more than just cleaning the streets. It’s about teaching the next generation the importance of selflessness and the value of contributing to society. If we undermine that, we hinder the development of future leaders who will prioritize the well-being of the community.”
Comrade Adesanya Ibrahim, President of FEDSA, echoed this sentiment, stressing the need to foster a culture of selflessness among young leaders. “If we want quality leadership in the future, we must encourage our youths to take ownership of their communities today. When young people learn to give back, it paves the way for people-centered programs and policies that will advance our society.”
Alhaji Rabiu Qadri, a participant in the exercise, shared his thoughts, saying, “Joining hands with others for this clean-up was an honor. It’s sad that some people chose to mock us, but that won’t stop us from making our community better.”
Another participant, erstwhile MOCPED Student Union leader, Habeeb Seyifunmi, added, “Those who mock us don’t understand the value of what we are doing. We’re not just cleaning; we are protecting our heritage and setting an example for the younger generation.”
The clean-up took place on the Epe Marina Road, a critical heritage site that connects tourists to the Oluwo Fish Market and the commercial center of Epe town. The road also houses significant landmarks such as the King Kosoko Embankment Center and the Oju-Alaro shrine which attracts thousands of tourists annually, underscoring the importance of keeping the area clean and well-maintained.
Mr. Kaka Babatunde, Publisher of Kakalistiq Media, also highlighted the significance of maintaining cleanliness in the area.
“Epe Marina Road is not just a commercial hub, it’s the heart of our town. With heritage sites, markets, tech hubs, and local businesses lining this road, we must make cleanliness a priority. A clean environment speaks volumes about our respect for our culture and our dedication to the future of Epe.”
The exercise served as a reminder of the need for community members to support youth-led initiatives that benefit everyone and preserve the rich cultural heritage of Epe.
