The Aare Ona Kakanfo of Yorubaland and Global Convener of Yoruba One Voice (YOV), Iba Gani Adams, has expressed concern over the growing wave of insecurity across the South-West, warning that kidnapping, banditry and other violent crimes are becoming increasingly alarming in the region.
Drivetvnews gathered that Adams made the remarks during the Yoruba One Voice International Virtual Conference, themed “Changing Face of Insecurity in Yorubaland.” He cited the abduction of 39 pupils and seven teachers from three schools in Yawota and Ahoro-Esinele communities in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State on May 15 as a major indication of the worsening security situation.
According to him, the incident marked a significant shift in the security landscape of the South-West, as large-scale school kidnappings had previously been more common in parts of northern Nigeria. He noted that the attack demonstrated how criminal networks are expanding their operations into Yoruba communities.
Adams explained that many rural settlements in the region remain vulnerable because of limited security presence and inadequate protection for residents. He also raised concerns about the movement of armed groups from Yoruba-speaking areas of Kwara and Kogi states into other parts of the South-West.
The Yoruba leader recalled several kidnapping incidents involving worshippers, traditional rulers and workers, stressing that persistent attacks have forced some residents to abandon their communities.
He criticised authorities for failing to act on repeated warnings about the activities of armed groups operating in forests and border communities. According to him, earlier intervention could have reduced the current security challenges facing the region.
To address the problem, Adams renewed his demand for the creation of state and local government police, arguing that a decentralised policing system would improve intelligence gathering, strengthen community trust and enable quicker responses to local threats.
He urged President Bola Tinubu and members of the National Assembly to support constitutional reforms that would pave the way for state police across the country.
Adams also called on South-West governors to deepen collaboration with grassroots security organisations under the Southwest Security Stakeholders’ Group (SSSG), which includes community-based groups such as the Oodua People’s Congress (OPC), Agbekoya Society, Vigilante Group of Nigeria and the Professional Hunters Association.
He maintained that stronger cooperation between governments, security agencies and local security outfits would help tackle banditry, kidnapping and terrorism more effectively.
Adams concluded by urging Yoruba people to remain united in confronting insecurity, stressing that lasting peace and development can only be achieved through collective action and stronger security partnerships.
