By John Dike, Osogbo
The Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, has vowed to draw upon ancestral powers to confront the escalating threat of banditry across the Southwest region.
Speaking during an interview on Channels TV, the monarch emphasized the need for unity among Southwest governors and traditional rulers, stressing that a coordinated regional front is essential in addressing the rising insecurity.
The Ooni described the recent meeting between governors and traditional leaders as a significant step—both in reaffirming support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration and in developing strategies that integrate cultural heritage into community protection efforts.
“The essence of our gathering was to strengthen ties and reaffirm confidence in our leadership. More importantly, we must explore meaningful ways to restore peace using the ancestral powers that guided our forebears in difficult times,” he said.
Intelligence reports have indicated a troubling infiltration of bandit groups into the region, heightening concerns among security agencies and local authorities.
The monarch highlighted the historical role of ancestral strength, noting that spiritual and cultural traditions once played pivotal roles in shielding communities from external threats.
“This is not just a call to traditional leadership,” he said. “It is a holistic appeal to government, communities, and our cultural institutions to unite against this menace. Our ancestors defended these lands with valor; it is time we channel that same spirit.”
His remarks come as the Southwest grapples with worsening security challenges, prompting broader discussions on innovative and multi-layered approaches to restoring peace. While traditional methods can bolster community resilience, experts maintain that sustained collaboration with security operatives and firm policy interventions remain crucial in tackling the root causes of banditry.
As Nigeria continues to navigate complex security concerns, the Ooni’s initiative seeks to align cultural heritage with modern governance, promoting a unified and proactive strategy against crime in the region.
