Deploy Traditional Spiritual Powers Against Bandits, Ooni Tells Yoruba Monarchs

The Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, has called on traditional rulers across Yorubaland to use ancestral institutions and spiritual heritage to fight banditry, kidnapping, and other crimes threatening the region.

Oba Ogunwusi made the call during the grand finale of the 2026 Ifa Festival held in Ile-Ife, Osun State.

According to a statement by his spokesperson, Moses Olafare, the monarch urged traditional rulers to strengthen cooperation among themselves and work closely with formal security agencies to rid their communities of criminals.

“We must bring together our traditional powers, spiritual heritage, and communal values to chase bandits, kidnappers, and all criminal elements out of Yorubaland and Nigeria as a whole,” the Ooni stated. “Our ancestors stood for justice, peace, and communal harmony, and we must invoke those values at this critical time.”

The monarch emphasised that traditional rulers must take greater responsibility for safeguarding their domains while supporting the government’s efforts. He noted that the public deserves to live in peace and move freely without fear, declaring that “enough is enough.”

While acknowledging that insecurity remains a major challenge for the country, the Ooni commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his ongoing efforts to address the crisis nationwide. He stressed that lasting peace requires collective action, as the government alone cannot solve the nation’s security challenges.

“Traditional institutions, religious leaders, community stakeholders, and citizens must work together in support of ongoing efforts to secure our country,” the monarch added.