The Ooni of Ife, Adeyeye Ogunwusi, has urged traditional rulers across Yorubaland to make use of cultural institutions and ancestral values in tackling banditry, kidnapping, and other crimes affecting communities in the region.
The monarch made the appeal during the grand finale of the 2026 Ifa Festival, according to a statement issued by his spokesperson, Moses Olafare.
He called on Yoruba monarchs to strengthen collaboration among themselves and maintain close partnerships with security agencies to help remove criminal elements from their communities.
The Ooni said traditional rulers must draw from the values of justice, peace, and communal harmony handed down by their ancestors while taking a more active role in protecting their domains.
He maintained that the growing cases of banditry and kidnapping require urgent and collective action from all stakeholders.
The monarch noted that residents deserve to live without fear and move freely within their communities.
He urged traditional rulers to take greater responsibility for the security of their areas while supporting government efforts and the work of security agencies.
Speaking on the country's security challenges, the Ooni acknowledged that insecurity remains a major concern for the Federal Government.
He, however, commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for ongoing efforts aimed at improving security across the nation.
He stressed that the government cannot solve the problem alone, adding that traditional institutions, religious leaders, community groups, and citizens must unite to support efforts to restore peace and safety.
As part of activities marking the festival, the monarch also offered ancestral prayers for the safe return of schoolchildren and teachers abducted during recent attacks in Oyo State and Borno State.
He described the incidents as troubling and unacceptable, expressing hope that the victims would return safely to their families.
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