By Ismail Azeez
The Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, Ojaja II, has called on traditional rulers across Yorubaland to strengthen collaboration among themselves and work closely with security agencies to combat criminal elements operating within their domains.
The monarch made the call on Sunday at his Ile Oodua Palace during activities marking the grand finale of the 2026 World Ifa Festival held in Ile-Ife, Osun State.
In a statement issued by the Director of Media and Public Affairs at the Ooni’s Palace, Otunba Moses Olafare, the monarch expressed deep concern over the worsening security situation in parts of the country.
“We must rise collectively against the menace of banditry and kidnapping. Enough is enough. Our people deserve to live in peace and move freely without fear. Traditional rulers must take greater responsibility for safeguarding their communities while supporting the efforts of the government and security agencies,” the Ooni said.
The Ooni urged Ifa devotees and traditional worshippers across the country to deploy the spiritual and cultural resources embedded in African traditional institutions in the fight against insecurity.
He also commended President Bola Tinubu for his administration’s ongoing efforts to tackle insecurity, noting that although challenges remain, the government has demonstrated a clear commitment to addressing security concerns.
He stressed that sustainable peace can only be achieved through collective responsibility and national unity.
“This is a time for unity. The government alone cannot solve the security challenges facing the nation. Traditional institutions, religious leaders, community stakeholders, and citizens must work together in support of ongoing efforts to secure our country,” the Ooni said.
As part of the spiritual activities marking the festival, the Ooni offered special ancestral prayers for the safe release of schoolchildren and teachers abducted in recent attacks in Oyo and Borno states.
He described the incidents as painful and unacceptable, praying for divine intervention to secure the immediate freedom of all victims and comfort their families.
The Ooni’s ancestral prayers followed the recent abduction of over 40 schoolchildren, including toddlers, and seven teachers during coordinated attacks on three schools in the Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State.
Speaking at the event, the Araba Awo Agbaye, Chief Awodotun Aworeni, urged Nigerians to embrace their cultural heritage and uphold the moral teachings embedded in the Ifa tradition.
According to him, Ifa remains a divine source of wisdom, guidance, and moral direction capable of fostering peaceful coexistence and sustainable development.
“The message of this year’s World Ifa Festival revolves around peace, unity, good relationships with fellow human beings, respect for elders, and collective responsibility for societal progress. If humanity embraces these values, the world will become a better place,” the Araba Awo Agbaye stated.