Insecurity: Defend South West against bandits, group charges Gani Adams

A group, Oodua Youth Coalition (OYC) has charged the Aare Ona Kakanfo of Yorubaland, Iba Gani Adams, as a matter of urgency intervene in the growing insecurity in the South West region.

The group also called on Adams to urgently work out the best approach to tackle the security challenges in the South-West, saying kidnappers are still on the prowl in all the parts of the region.

The charge was contained in a letter addressed to Adams, by the President of the group, Tayo Oluyi, who expressed concern over the sudden rise in kidnappings and killings in the region, saying the leaders of the region need to act fast before the kidnappers take over the South West States.

Oluyi who stressed the need to respond to the various security challenges, expressed displeasure over the last week killing of two monarchs and abduction of school children and their teachers in Ekiti state and said the kidnappers are on rampage and becoming more daring.

Oluyi’s letter reads: “I am writing with deep concern regarding the escalating insecurity in Yoruba land. Recent events in the Southwestern states indicate a disturbing trend of invasion by individuals whose sole purpose is to disrupt the peace of our people.

“The untimely demise of two Yoruba monarchs, Oba Olatunde Olusola of Imojo and Oba Babatunde Ogunsakin, the Elesun of Esun Ekiti, at the hands of gunmen within Ekiti borders, the abduction of pupils from Apostolic Faith Nursery and Primary School in Emure-Ekiti, and the alarming explosion in Ibadan linked to foreign miners are distressing occurrences that demand urgent attention and decisive action.

“Throughout history, the Yoruba people have upheld the tradition of securing their territory, with warriors rising to confront transgressors threatening the peace.

“Recognising that security is a collective responsibility, I implore you, as the Generalissimo of Yoruba land, to rise to the occasion and find ways to complement the government’s efforts in securing our homeland”

He said, “Aare, the time has come to emulate the legacy of Kurumi, Ojo Iberu, Aare Latoosa, and MKO Abiola, who made significant contributions to fortify the unity and security of our people.

“It is crucial to lead from the front, coordinating security-interest groups across the zones to quell the activities of marauders endangering our peace.

“I sincerely hope you heed this call and fulfill the responsibilities of your esteemed office as the Generalissimo of the Yoruba race.”

The OYC President, however, appealed to the Aare Onakakanfo and other Yoruba leaders to find lasting solution to the security situation in the state, while calling Yoruba leaders and stakeholders across the southwest region to be vigilant in keeping terrorists at bay.