In response to the growing infiltration of bandits, Boko Haram, and ISWAP insurgents into the Southwest, traditional rulers across the region have intensified efforts to secure their domains using traditional and modern security strategies. These monarchs have vowed to ensure that no criminal group finds refuge in the region, working closely with state governments, local vigilantes, and law enforcement agencies to maintain peace and stability.
Speaking on measures being implemented to tackle the rising security threats, the Chairman of the Ondo State Council of Chiefs and Deji of Akure, Oba Aladetoyinbo Aladelusi, affirmed that monarchs in the region are deploying traditional methods to complement government security efforts.
Oba Aladelusi, through his Chief Press Secretary, Michael Adeleye, stated:
> “The influx of bandits into parts of the Southwest, as highlighted by Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde, indicates that the military is making significant progress in flushing out these criminals from the North. However, let me categorically state that the Southwest will never serve as a haven for displaced bandit groups.
“We are actively working with Southwest governors to safeguard our territories. Our traditional institutions have mobilized community leaders, Olus, and chiefs in forest reserves to identify and report any strange presence. Residents have been strictly warned against harboring unfamiliar faces without verification.”
The Chairman of the Ekiti State Council of Traditional Rulers, Oba Olori Faboro, reassured citizens that Ekiti remains one of the most peaceful states in Nigeria. He dismissed fears of an impending invasion, attributing such concerns to misinformation spread on social media.
> “We have taken adequate measures to secure our state. The Amotekun Corps and the Agro Marshall unit, established last year by the state government, actively patrol our farmlands. Unlike before, incidents of kidnapping have significantly reduced due to the collective efforts of law enforcement agencies and local security outfits.
> “I do not subscribe to the exaggerated narratives on social media about an imminent attack. The reality on the ground is different.”
The Orangun of Oke-Ila, Oba Adedokun Abolarin, stressed the importance of continuous collaboration between the government and traditional rulers in tackling security challenges.
> “The Federal Government must engage traditional rulers in meaningful dialogue on security matters. We are the ones on the ground in rural areas; we understand the terrain and the people better than anyone else. Engaging with us will enhance intelligence gathering and proactive intervention against criminal elements.”
In Oyo State, the Okere of Sakiland, Oba Khalid Olabisi, revealed that proactive steps have been taken to prevent any security breach in his domain.
> “We have established community vigilance groups to monitor and report suspicious movements. We are fostering a culture of heightened awareness among our residents. Additionally, we are in close collaboration with local law enforcement and military units to ensure swift responses to potential threats.”
The Eselu of Iselu Kingdom, Oba Akintunde Akinyemi, lamented the limitations of traditional rulers in tackling insecurity, emphasizing that the current constitutional framework does not grant them direct enforcement powers.
> “Given the porous nature of our national borders, the government must strengthen border security. All security agencies at border points must be on high alert to prevent the unchecked movement of insurgents into our communities.”
With the rising security concerns, Southwest monarchs are taking a stand, deploying age-old traditional security mechanisms alongside modern strategies. Their unwavering commitment to safeguarding their people underscores the need for a multi-faceted approach in the fight against banditry and insurgency.
By Dayo Johnson, Rotimi Ojomoyela, Shina Abubakar, James Ogunnaike & Deola Badru
PIONEER NEWS 