Alaafin of Oyo urges FG, states to boost security in SW, Kwara, Kogi as insecurity rises
The Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Abimbola Owoade, has called on federal and state governments to urgently increase security operations in South-West states, Kwara, and Kogi due to rising insecurity affecting rural and agrarian communities. Speaking through his Director of Culture and Public Relations on Friday, April 17, 2026, he acknowledged government efforts but stressed the situation demands swift reinforcement, intensified coordination, and immediate scaling up of security responses.
He specifically called for rapid deployment of security forces, strengthened presence in affected communities, enhanced intelligence gathering with real-time information sharing, decisive and sustained operational responses to deter attacks, and closer, structured collaboration with local communities. The monarch further directed the Aare Ona Kakanfo of Yorubaland, Gani Adams, to lead immediate consultations with traditional rulers, community leaders, and stakeholders for locally-driven security solutions.
Emphasizing these efforts must align with Nigeria's Constitution, Oba Owoade urged authorities to maintain transparent communication with affected communities to prevent panic and build trust. He encouraged citizens to remain vigilant, law-abiding, and cooperative with security agencies while extending condolences to all victims of insecurity. With persistent threats across multiple states despite government claims of increased efforts, what specific community-based security measures would work best in your locality, and how should traditional institutions be formally integrated into state and federal security strategies?