The Palace of the Alaafin of Oyo Oba Abdulakeem Abimbola Owoade as expressed deep concern over the escalating wave of insecurity across parts of the Southwest, Kwara and Kogi states, following renewed attacks on vulnerable communities.
In a press release signed by Ademola Adeniyi, Director of Culture and Public Relations, on behalf of the Palace of the Alaafin of Oyo., the Palace highlighted growing incidents of violence in Ondo, Kwara, Kogi and Ekiti states, citing affected areas such as Akure North, Ifelodun, Oyun, Oke Ero and Ikole local government areas.
The statement referenced a recent attack on April 9 in Igushin community, near Akure in Ondo State, where suspected kidnappers reportedly invaded the area at night, opened fire indiscriminately and killed a woman and her daughter inside their residence. The victims were said to be local residents, with the deceased woman identified as a poultry farmer.
According to the Palace, the incident reflects a troubling pattern of repeated attacks, kidnappings and killings that have heightened fear among residents across the affected regions.
While acknowledging efforts by security agencies, the Alaafin stressed that the current situation requires urgent reinforcement, improved coordination and a more proactive response, especially in rural and agrarian communities.
The Palace called for the rapid deployment of security personnel to troubled areas, enhanced intelligence gathering, real-time information sharing and sustained operations to deter further attacks.
It also emphasised the need for stronger collaboration between security agencies and local communities, noting that traditional institutions must play a more active role in intelligence gathering, mobilisation and conflict prevention.
As part of efforts to address the situation, the Alaafin directed the Aare Ona Kakanfo of Yorubaland, Gani Adams, to begin consultations with traditional rulers, community leaders and other stakeholders to develop community-based security interventions and early warning systems.
The statement further revealed ongoing engagements with key traditional rulers, including the paramount ruler of Jebba in Kwara State, as part of broader efforts to tackle insecurity in affected areas.
The Palace urged government authorities to maintain transparent communication with residents, stressing that timely information and visible leadership are critical to preventing panic and strengthening coordinated responses.
Residents were also advised to remain vigilant, law-abiding and cooperative with security agencies, noting that organised community efforts can help in early detection of threats.
Reaffirming its commitment to the protection of lives and property, the Palace called for urgent and collective action involving government, security agencies and community structures to restore peace and stability across the region.
