Alaafin Raises Alarm Over Rising Insecurity

Author: Gist Correspondent

The Alaafin of Oyo, Abimbola Owoade, has expressed deep concern over the worsening security situation across the South-West, as well as parts of Kwara State and Kogi State, calling for urgent and intensified action by government authorities.

In a statement issued by the palace’s Director of Culture and Public Relations, Ademola Adeniyi-Kukulaja, the monarch described the spate of attacks in the affected regions as a grave threat to lives, livelihoods, and community stability.

According to the statement, the traditional ruler acknowledged ongoing efforts by federal and state governments, as well as security agencies, but stressed that the scale of insecurity now requires stronger, more coordinated responses.

He called for the rapid deployment of security personnel to vulnerable communities, particularly rural and agrarian areas, alongside improved intelligence gathering and real-time information sharing among relevant agencies.

The monarch further urged sustained and decisive operations to deter criminal activities, as well as structured collaboration between security institutions and local communities.

Highlighting the role of traditional institutions, the Alaafin emphasised the need for closer engagement with grassroots leadership in intelligence gathering, community mobilisation, and conflict prevention.

As part of immediate steps, he directed the Aare Ona Kakanfo of Yorubaland, Gani Adams, to begin wide-ranging consultations with traditional rulers, community leaders, and other stakeholders across the affected and neighbouring areas to develop local security interventions.

The palace noted that such efforts must align strictly with the provisions of the Constitution of Nigeria and operate within the framework of lawful security operations.

The Alaafin also stressed the importance of transparent communication between authorities and affected communities, noting that timely information is critical in preventing panic, building trust, and ensuring coordinated responses.

He urged citizens to remain vigilant, law-abiding, and cooperative with security agencies, adding that organised community vigilance can enhance early threat detection and strengthen collective resilience.

The monarch extended condolences to victims and families affected by the ongoing violence.

In recent months, several parts of Nigeria have witnessed rising cases of banditry, kidnappings, and other violent crimes, with calls mounting on the government to intensify efforts to safeguard lives and property across the country.