The Gani Adams, Aare Ona Kakanfo of Yorubaland, has called for urgent collaboration between Southwest governors and the Federal Government to curb rising insecurity across the region following the killing of a traditional ruler in Ondo State.

Adams made the call on Friday while reacting to the assassination of Oba Kehinde Jacob Falodun, the Alagamo of Agamo community in Akure North Local Government Area of Ondo State.

According to sources, the monarch was killed by suspected bandits after he reportedly resisted an attempt to abduct him.

A family source disclosed that the assailants initially opened fire on the monarch, but when the bullets failed to penetrate, they allegedly struck him on the head with a weapon.

Describing the incident as tragic and embarrassing, Adams said the killing was a grave affront to Yoruba values and a stark reminder of the worsening security challenges confronting both Yorubaland and Nigeria at large.

“This heinous act has once again highlighted the alarming security challenges confronting Yorubaland and Nigeria at large,” he said.

The Yoruba leader stressed the need for a recalibration of Nigeria’s security architecture, calling for a more robust and coordinated framework to address the recurring cases of violence, kidnappings and killings in the Southwest.

He urged Southwest governors and the Federal Government to work closely with the office of the Aare Ona Kakanfo and his Southwest Security Stakeholders Group, which he said comprises over 30 security-related subgroups, to tackle insecurity in forests, communities and neighbourhoods.

“It is imperative that the federal and state governments respond decisively to this tragedy by strengthening security measures and fostering collaboration with key traditional and security stakeholders,” Adams stated.

He warned that buffer zones around the region had been infiltrated by criminal elements who were now testing the preparedness of authorities.

Adams cited recent incidents across the region, including the rape and murder of an 85-year-old woman in Ibadan, kidnappings in Osun State, the abduction of a Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) personnel in Ekiti State after a viral assault video, and an attempted machete attack by a suspected bandit disguised as a beggar in Itori, Ogun State.

He also referenced persistent attacks and kidnappings in parts of Kwara and Kogi states.

According to him, the murder of Oba Falodun should serve as a wake-up call to all stakeholders.

“The senseless murder of Oba Kehinde Falodun must serve as a wake-up call to all stakeholders. Together, through unity and decisive action, Yorubaland can overcome insecurity and build a peaceful environment conducive for development and prosperity,” he said.

At least seven traditional rulers have reportedly been killed by bandits across Southwest states and Yoruba-speaking communities in Kwara State in recent times, raising concerns among residents and community leaders over the deteriorating security situation in the region. (Daily Sun)