To Keep the Southwest Safe From Bandits, Yoruba Rulers Employ Traditional Methods.

In response to the infiltration of bandits, as well as members of Boko Haram and ISWAP in the South-West region, local monarchs have announced the activation of traditional methods to enhance security in the area. The traditional rulers have also pledged to prevent the South-West from becoming a refuge for bandits or insurgents. When inquired about the measures being implemented to combat the escalating insecurity and the influx of bandits, the Chairman of the Council of Chiefs in Ondo State, Oba Aladetoyinbo Aladelusi, the Deji of Akureland, indicated that they are offering traditional support to tackle these security challenges. Speaking through his Chief Press Secretary, Michael Adeleye, the monarch stated: “The recent influx of bandits into certain areas of the South-West, as highlighted by Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State, underscores the military's commitment to eradicating banditry from the nation, with their efforts beginning to show positive outcomes. “Nevertheless, in light of the recent reports regarding their potential movement into the South-West, I must assert that this region will not serve as a sanctuary for any bandit groups displaced from the northern territories. “The traditional institutions are collaborating with the South-West Governors to ensure the safety of our region. We are also engaging with all our Olus and Chiefs in the forest reserve areas to monitor for any unfamiliar individuals and to ensure that their communities do not harbor such persons. Additionally, in a conversation with Vanguard, the Chairman of the Ekiti State Council of Traditional Rulers, Oba Olori Faboro, remarked that while Ekiti has remained peaceful, concerns about invasion are primarily propagated through social media. Oba Faboro noted: “We have implemented sufficient measures, including the presence of Amotekun, and approximately a year ago, the Governor established the Agro Marshall to patrol our agricultural areas. The incidence of kidnapping has significantly decreased compared to over a year ago. “The police have been performing admirably. I do not endorse the narratives circulating on social media.” Emphasizing the necessity for ongoing collaboration between governmental authorities and traditional leaders to address the issue of insecurity, the Orangun of Oke-Ila, Oba Adedokun Abolarin, remarked, “We must remain vigilant. The Federal Government should maintain continuous communication with traditional rulers to combat this menace. We are familiar with the rural areas, the terrain, and the local populace.” Similarly, the Okere of Sakiland, Oba Khalid Olabisi, indicated that measures are being implemented to mitigate the influx of bandits and to prevent an escalation of insecurity within his jurisdiction. In a telephone interview with Vanguard, Oba Olabisi stated, “We have formed community vigilance groups to observe and report any suspicious activities, thereby fostering a culture of awareness among residents.” Furthermore, the Eselu of Iselu Kingdom in Yewa North local government area of Ogun State, Oba Akintunde Akinyemi, expressed that under the current Constitution of Nigeria, traditional rulers lack the authority to address insecurity effectively. He urged the government to take necessary actions to ensure the safety of their territories. Oba Akinyemi noted, “Given the porous nature of the nation’s borders, it is imperative for the government to alert all security agencies stationed at the borders.”