The Ooni of Ife, Adeyeye Ogunwusi, has called on traditional rulers across Yorubaland to take a more active role in tackling the growing threat of banditry, kidnapping, and other criminal activities affecting communities in the region.
Speaking during the grand finale of the 2026 Ifa Festival, the monarch urged traditional institutions to draw on their ancestral heritage, cultural values, and community influence to help restore peace and security.
According to a statement issued by his spokesperson on Sunday, 7th June, 2026, Moses Olafare, the Ooni emphasized the need for stronger collaboration among traditional rulers and closer cooperation with security agencies to flush out criminal elements.
“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. Our ancestors stood for justice, peace, and communal harmony, and we must invoke those values at this critical time,” he said.
The revered monarch stressed that communities can no longer afford to live under the fear of attacks and abductions, calling on traditional rulers to take greater responsibility for the safety of their domains.
“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 added.
While acknowledging that insecurity remains one of Nigeria’s biggest challenges, the Ooni commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for efforts being made to address the crisis across the country.
He, however, maintained that government efforts alone would not be enough to defeat insecurity, urging traditional institutions, religious leaders, community stakeholders, and citizens to work together in support of ongoing security operations.
“This is a time for unity. The government alone cannot solve the security challenges facing the nation,” he said.
As part of activities marking the festival, the Ooni also offered prayers for the safe return of schoolchildren and teachers recently abducted in attacks in Oyo and Borno states, describing the incidents as heartbreaking and unacceptable.