In response to escalating insecurity plaguing the Southwest region of Nigeria, the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, has issued a call to Yoruba traditional rulers, urging them not to forsake the use of supernatural powers in safeguarding their territories against bandit attacks.
During the inaugural Yoruba Security Summit convened to address the surge in violence and the tragic killings of royal figures in Ekiti and Kwara states, Oba Adeyeye emphasized the importance of embracing Yoruba cultural traditions for protection.
He cautioned against apathy towards supernatural practices, asserting that any monarch disinterested in Yoruba customs should relinquish their throne to a successor who values and upholds these traditions.
The summit, attended by prominent monarchs such as the Deji of Akure, Oba Aladetoyinbo Ogunlade, and the Akarigbo of Remo, Oba Babatunde Adewale Ajayi, resulted in a comprehensive communique signed by the participating leaders.
Important points outlined in the communique include a call for Yoruba people to take control of their forests, homelands, and farmlands, alongside a directive to bolster the capabilities of the Amotekun Corps through enhanced training, resources, and recruitment strategies.
Additionally, the summit stressed the imperative for unity among Yoruba traditional rulers to collectively combat banditry and kidnappings, transcending state boundaries.
Furthermore, the summit advocated for the organization of a Regional Security Summit by Southwest governors to address pressing concerns and fortify collaborative efforts in securing the region.
It also expressed solidarity with the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, urging strong support for his administration in advancing the interests of the Yoruba people.
Highlighting the spiritual dimension of protection, the communique emphasized the need for Yoruba monarchs to tap into traditional values and natural resources, including supernatural powers, to confront the challenges posed by criminal elements.
Moreover, the summit underscored the importance of technological advancements, advocating for the deployment of drones and other surveillance technologies to enhance forest and road monitoring across Yoruba territories.
Concluding the summit, it was agreed that future Yoruba Security Summits would be convened quarterly to address emerging threats and adapt strategies accordingly.
