By DAYO ADESULU
Urges Stronger Collaboration With Security Agencies to Restore Peace Across Yorubaland
The Ooni of Ife, has called on traditional rulers across Yorubaland to strengthen the use of traditional institutions, cultural values, and community-based security mechanisms in the fight against banditry, kidnapping, and other criminal activities threatening the region.
The revered monarch made the call during the grand finale of the 2026 Ifa Festival held in Ile-Ife, stressing that insecurity has become a major concern requiring collective action from all stakeholders.
According to a statement issued on Sunday by his spokesperson, Moses Olafare, the Ooni urged traditional rulers to deepen cooperation among themselves and work closely with security agencies to identify and flush out criminal elements operating within their communities.
Speaking at the event, Oba Ogunwusi emphasized that the rich cultural heritage and communal values of the Yoruba people must be harnessed to confront rising security challenges.
“We must bring together our traditional powers, spiritual heritage, and communal values to chase bandits, kidnappers, and all criminal elements out of Yorubaland and Nigeria as a whole. Our ancestors stood for justice, peace, and communal harmony, and we must uphold those values at this critical time,” he said.
Traditional Rulers Must Take Greater Responsibility
The monarch maintained that traditional rulers have a crucial role to play in safeguarding their domains and supporting ongoing government efforts to combat insecurity.
According to him, communities can no longer afford to remain passive in the face of increasing cases of banditry and kidnapping.
“We must rise collectively against the menace of banditry and kidnapping. Enough is enough. Our people deserve to live in peace and move freely without fear. Traditional rulers must take greater responsibility for protecting their communities while working hand in hand with government and security agencies,” he stated.
The Ooni noted that security challenges require a coordinated approach involving traditional institutions, community leaders, religious organizations, and ordinary citizens.
Ooni Commends Tinubu’s Security Efforts
While acknowledging the persistence of security threats across the country, the monarch commended President for the efforts of his administration in tackling insecurity.
He stressed that sustainable peace and stability can only be achieved when all segments of society unite behind government initiatives aimed at protecting lives and property.
“This is a time for unity. The government alone cannot solve the security challenges facing the nation. Traditional institutions, religious leaders, community stakeholders, and citizens must work together in support of ongoing efforts to secure our country,” he said.
Special Prayers Offered for Abducted Schoolchildren
As part of activities marking the 2026 Ifa Festival, the Ooni also offered special ancestral prayers for the safe release of schoolchildren and teachers abducted during recent attacks in and .
Describing the incidents as painful and unacceptable, the monarch prayed for divine intervention to secure the freedom of all victims while comforting their families and loved ones.
He reiterated the need for collective vigilance and community cooperation to prevent criminal elements from gaining footholds in any part of Yorubaland and Nigeria.
The Ooni’s remarks come amid growing concerns over the activities of bandits and kidnappers in parts of the South-West, with calls increasing for stronger collaboration between traditional institutions and formal security agencies to address the challenge.
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