The Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Abimbola Owoade, has expressed deep concern over escalating insecurity across parts of the South-West, Kwara and Kogi States, warning that the trend poses a serious threat to lives, livelihoods and regional stability.
The monarch, in a statement issued on Friday by the Director of Culture and Public Relations of the Alaafin’s Palace, Ademola Adeniyi-Kukulaja, called for urgent and intensified security interventions by both federal and state authorities to stem the tide of attacks in affected communities.
Oba Owoade said the rising frequency and nature of violent incidents in the region demanded immediate attention, noting that rural and agrarian settlements had become increasingly vulnerable to criminal elements.
“Kabiyesi views these developments with utmost urgency and deep concern, as the frequency and nature of these incidents pose a serious threat to lives, livelihoods, and the overall stability of affected communities,” the statement read.
While acknowledging ongoing efforts by government and security agencies, the Alaafin stressed that current realities required “swift reinforcement, intensified coordination and immediate scaling up of security responses” across flashpoint areas.
He specifically called for rapid deployment of security personnel, improved intelligence gathering, real-time information sharing, and sustained operations aimed at deterring further attacks.
The monarch also advocated stronger collaboration between security agencies and local communities, stressing that structured grassroots engagement remained critical to addressing insecurity.
“In furtherance of this urgent security challenge, the Alaafin has directed the Aare Ona Kakanfo of Yorubaland, Gani Adams, to immediately commence wide-ranging consultations for local and traditional security interventions with traditional rulers, community leaders, and key stakeholders across vulnerable and adjoining areas,” the statement added.
Oba Owoade, however, emphasised that such initiatives must remain within the ambit of the Constitution, ensuring alignment with lawful security operations in the country.
He further urged authorities to prioritise transparent communication with affected communities, warning that misinformation and silence could fuel panic and undermine coordinated responses.
“At this critical moment, citizens are strongly encouraged to remain vigilant, law-abiding, and cooperative with security agencies,” the Alaafin stated, adding that community vigilance, if properly guided, could significantly enhance early threat detection.
The monarch also commiserated with families of victims affected by recent violent incidents across the region, describing the situation as distressing and unacceptable.
Several states across Nigeria continue to grapple with insecurity, including banditry, kidnappings and violent attacks, despite repeated assurances by the Federal Government that efforts are being intensified to restore peace and security.
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