Declaration Following the Extraordinary Assembly of the Ooni Caucus on February 4, 2024, to Address the Urgent Insecurity/Kidnapping Crisis in the South West

The Caucus expresses profound condolences to the families, communities, and the government of Ekiti state regarding the barbaric and reprehensible killings of traditional rulers, notably the Oba of Koro in Kwara state. Additionally, it condemns the alarming kidnappings of school children and their mentors, along with the recent violent assault on the peace, security, and corporate integrity of Ekiti state, the South West region, and indeed, all six geopolitical zones.

Awaiting the outcome of investigations into these despicable and criminally insane acts, the Caucus asserts that perpetrators must face the full force of the law.

The Ooni Caucus advocates for the establishment of a Military Base to reinforce the existing security apparatus in the state, which has been glaringly inadequate.

Furthermore, the Caucus aligns with the urgent calls for a constitutional amendment aimed at decentralizing the Nigerian police force to enable the formation of state and community-based policing structures. This decentralization should be coupled with the inclusion and collaboration of Ex-servicemen, such as retirees from the Police, Military, and Paramilitary Forces.

Emphasizing the need to strengthen the capacities of local law enforcement agencies across the 774 Local Government Areas through the Divisional Police Officers’ office.

Acknowledging the establishment of Amotekun, the Pan South West Zonal security outfit, and its commendable achievements despite acute resource constraints, the Caucus urges the South West state governments to intensify their support for this initiative by providing adequate resources and logistical assistance. Furthermore, the activation of the Oodua Peoples Congress (OPC) is deemed essential and urgently imperative.

Encouragement and support should also be extended to other notable pro-Yoruba communal security groups, including but not limited to those led by Chief Sunday Igboho, to bolster strategic protection and defense of the Yoruba Region.

Emphasizing the specific roles of the government, communities, and the private sector in the crucial task of securing the nation and its communities, the Caucus underscores the economic dimension of security, advocating for economic interventions such as skills development and job creation programs to mitigate security threats arising from socioeconomic factors.

The Southwest political leadership is urged to promote and facilitate community-based security initiatives at every level, from hamlets to towns across Yoruba land. Border protection and securing all ungoverned spaces, particularly forests and public utilities, are imperative.

Additionally, leading figures and critical stakeholder groups from across the region are implored to overcome their self-destructive complacency and indifference towards the security of Yorubaland. Regular consultations with Southwest Governors to identify current security threats and devise remedial actions are essential.

Royal fathers and traditional leaders must convene mandatory meetings to discuss and agree upon measures to promote and defend the Yoruba heritage. They should be vigilant and cognizant of harmful land and property ownership practices that expose Yoruba communities to external threats and subversion.

Recognizing the pivotal role of traditional rulers in maintaining peace and security within their domains, the Caucus calls for their empowerment and autonomy commensurate with their significant responsibilities.

Efforts should be made to expose and condemn individuals and institutions found guilty of compromising Yoruba interests for selfish reasons.

Leadership at all levels must undertake regular campaigns to educate citizens on security issues and the importance of vigilance and preparedness in addressing security threats and challenges effectively.

Regarding the security status of Mr. Sunday Adeniyi Adeyemo, also known as Sunday Igboho, it is maintained that he poses no threat to the peace and stability of Nigeria. Thus, he should be accorded the rights, freedoms, and privileges due to every Nigerian citizen. If he is currently outside Nigeria, he should feel free to return home at his discretion.

Lastly, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is reminded of the need to fulfill his commitment to supporting the decentralization and devolution of powers in Nigeria.