Ooni of Ife Urges Yoruba Monarchs to Deploy Traditional Measures Against Banditry and Kidnapping

The Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, has called on traditional rulers across Yorubaland to harness ancestral values and traditional institutions in the fight against banditry, kidnapping, and other forms of insecurity threatening communities in the region.

The revered monarch made the appeal during the grand finale of the 2026 Ifa Festival, where he expressed deep concern over the rising wave of criminal activities affecting parts of the South-West and other regions of Nigeria.

According to a statement issued by his spokesperson, Moses Olafare, the Ooni urged Yoruba monarchs to strengthen cooperation among themselves and work closely with government authorities and security agencies to tackle the growing security challenges.

Oba Ogunwusi emphasized that traditional institutions have a critical role to play in maintaining peace and protecting communities. He called for a collective effort that combines cultural heritage, communal values, and existing security structures to confront criminal elements operating within the region.

The monarch stressed that banditry and kidnapping have become major threats to public safety and economic development, noting that residents deserve to live and move freely without fear. He urged traditional rulers to take greater responsibility for safeguarding their domains while supporting ongoing government initiatives aimed at restoring security.

“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,” the Ooni said, adding that the principles of justice, peace, and communal harmony upheld by past generations should guide current efforts to address insecurity.

While acknowledging that insecurity remains one of the most pressing challenges facing the country, the Ooni commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for the efforts being made by his administration to combat criminality and improve security nationwide.

He maintained that lasting peace and stability can only be achieved through a united approach involving government institutions, traditional authorities, religious leaders, community stakeholders, and citizens.

“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 stated.

As part of activities marking the annual Ifa Festival, the Ooni also offered special prayers for the safe release of schoolchildren and teachers who were recently abducted in attacks in Oyo and Borno states.

Describing the incidents as painful and unacceptable, he prayed for divine intervention in securing the freedom of all victims and asked for comfort and strength for their families during the difficult period.

The Ooni’s remarks come amid growing concerns over insecurity in several parts of Nigeria, with increasing calls for stronger collaboration between traditional institutions, local communities, and security agencies to address emerging threats and protect lives and property.

His appeal underscores the enduring influence of traditional leadership in community development and conflict resolution, while highlighting the importance of collective action in tackling the country’s evolving security challenges.