Gani Adams mobilises Yoruba monarchs against rising insecurity

Yoruba One Voice Worldwide has called on traditional rulers across Yorubaland to unite and form a common front to combat the escalating insecurity plaguing the region. The appeal was a key resolution from a virtual international conference organized by the group, led by Aare Ona Kakanfo of Yorubaland, Iba Gani Adams.

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The conference advises traditional rulers to eschew their differences, close ranks and forge a common front in the fight against insecurity in Yorubaland.

The conference brought together Yoruba organizations, community leaders, professionals, and cultural advocates from Nigeria and the diaspora. Participants expressed grave concern over the deteriorating security situation, citing increased incidents of kidnapping, banditry, violent crimes, and attacks on communities. The ongoing hostage crisis involving over 40 teachers and pupils from three schools in Oyo State was highlighted as a stark example of the region's vulnerability.

In a communiqué, the group emphasized that the security of Yorubaland hinges on unity and effective collaboration among all stakeholders, including traditional rulers. Speakers at the conference argued that the current centralized policing system has proven inadequate in addressing local security challenges and emerging threats. They noted that early warnings about the infiltration of bandits into Yorubaland were not adequately heeded by authorities.

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The future security of Yorubaland depends on unity of purpose, effective collaboration among stakeholders, community participation and the adoption of decentralised policing structures capable of responding to local realities.

The communiqué urged traditional rulers to set aside differences and forge a united front. It stressed the necessity of collective action, strategic partnerships, and sustained commitment to restore peace and prosperity. The participants also demanded urgent action from the Federal Government, South-West governors, security agencies, and traditional institutions to secure the release of abducted schoolchildren and implement proactive measures to prevent further deterioration.

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Early warnings and intelligence reports regarding the gradual infiltration of bandits into Yorubaland were not given adequate attention by relevant authorities, thereby allowing criminal networks to strengthen their operations.