Ooni urges yoruba monarchs to deploy traditional institutions against banditry, kidnapping

The Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, has called on traditional rulers across Yorubaland to complement government security efforts by leveraging traditional institutions, ancestral values and community structures to tackle the growing threat of banditry and kidnapping in the Southwest.

The revered monarch made the call during the grand finale of the 2026 Ifa Festival, amid increasing concerns over security breaches in several parts of the country and ongoing efforts by governments and security agencies to curb criminal activities.

According to a statement issued on Sunday by his spokesperson, Moses Olafare, the Ooni expressed deep concern over the spread of insecurity and urged Yoruba monarchs to take proactive steps in safeguarding their communities.

Oba Ogunwusi emphasized that traditional rulers have a critical role to play in restoring peace and security, noting that the region’s rich cultural heritage and communal values could serve as powerful tools in confronting criminal elements.

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“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 monarch said.

“Our ancestors stood for justice, peace and communal harmony, and we must invoke those values at this critical time.”

The Ooni stressed the need for collective action among traditional institutions, community leaders and government authorities, insisting that the fight against insecurity requires a united front.

“We must rise collectively against the menace of banditry and kidnapping. Enough is enough. Our people deserve to live in peace and move freely without fear,” he stated.

He further charged traditional rulers to assume greater responsibility in protecting their domains while maintaining close collaboration with security agencies and government authorities.

“Traditional rulers must take greater responsibility for safeguarding their communities while supporting the government and security agencies,” he said.

The foremost monarch also called for stronger partnerships among traditional institutions, religious leaders, community stakeholders and citizens to reinforce ongoing efforts aimed at securing lives and property across the country.

“Traditional institutions, religious leaders, community stakeholders, and citizens must work together in support of ongoing efforts to secure our country,” the Ooni added.

Describing recent incidents of abduction across parts of Nigeria as painful and unacceptable, Oba Ogunwusi offered prayers for the safe return of victims currently in captivity and comfort for families affected by the attacks.

His remarks come at a time when concerns over kidnapping, banditry and other violent crimes continue to dominate public discourse, with stakeholders increasingly calling for community-based approaches and stronger collaboration between traditional institutions and formal security structures to address the security challenges confronting the nation.