Several Yoruba monarchs, traditionalists and community leaders have expressed support for the call by the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, urging traditional rulers to deploy ancestral and traditional resources in the fight against terrorism, kidnapping and other security threats across the Southwest.
The debate followed the recent abduction of pupils and teachers from schools in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State, an incident that has heightened concerns over insecurity in the region.
Speaking during the grand finale of the 2026 Ifa Festival, the Ooni described the growing wave of kidnappings and attacks as unacceptable and called for a united response from traditional institutions.
According to the monarch, traditional rulers should work together by drawing on Yoruba cultural heritage, communal values and traditional institutions to support efforts aimed at restoring peace and security.
The Ooni said communities deserve to live without fear and urged traditional rulers to take greater responsibility in safeguarding their domains while supporting government security agencies.
His remarks sparked mixed reactions, with some Nigerians questioning whether traditional methods could effectively address modern security challenges involving heavily armed criminal groups.
However, several traditional rulers and cultural leaders insisted that indigenous systems of protection remain relevant and can complement conventional security measures.
The Olojudo of Ido in Ekiti State, Oba Ayorinde Ilori-Faboro, argued that traditional spiritual systems have historically been used to protect communities from invaders and criminals.
He maintained that indigenous methods remain effective when properly applied and noted that many people still rely on such systems for protection.
Traditionalist and cultural advocate, Ogundeji Elebuibon, also said traditional mechanisms for protecting forests and communities remain available.
He called for a regional security summit involving governors, traditional rulers and custodians of indigenous knowledge to discuss alternative approaches to addressing insecurity.
According to him, collaboration between government authorities and traditional institutions could strengthen community-based security efforts.
Similarly, the Deji of Akureland, Oba Aladetoyinbo Aladelusi, reaffirmed support for exploring traditional solutions while stressing the need to operate within the law.
He said traditional institutions are already discussing ways to support ongoing efforts against criminal activities without encouraging illegality or abuse.
Community leaders and elder statesmen also expressed concern over worsening insecurity and urged authorities to consider every lawful option available to protect lives and property.
General Secretary of the Ekiti Council of Elders, Elder Niyi Ajibulu, said the increasing number of kidnappings and attacks has created fear among residents and raised questions about existing security arrangements.
He noted that traditional institutions could play a complementary role in supporting government efforts to tackle insecurity.
The Oodua Security Network also signalled readiness to collaborate with traditional authorities if granted the necessary approval by relevant government agencies.
Its commander, Olayemi Victor Egbeola, stated that indigenous security structures possess local knowledge that could assist in protecting communities from criminal elements.
Meanwhile, the President of the International Council for Ifa Religion, Chief Fayemi Fatunde Fakayode, urged caution in interpreting the Ooni’s comments.
He explained that traditional spiritual practices should not be viewed as substitutes for security agencies but rather as complementary efforts that work alongside law enforcement, governance and community cooperation.
Fakayode stressed that lasting peace requires collaboration among traditional institutions, government authorities, security agencies, religious organisations and citizens.
He added that addressing insecurity effectively demands a combination of moral leadership, community vigilance and practical security measures.
As discussions continue, the issue has reignited broader conversations about the role of traditional institutions in modern governance and security management.
While opinions remain divided, many stakeholders agree that stronger cooperation among governments, security agencies, community leaders and traditional authorities will be essential in addressing the growing security challenges facing parts of Nigeria.
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