A sociocultural organisation, under the auspices of Egbe Omo Yoruba Heritage and Culture Preservation Initiative, has appealed to President Bola Tinubu and Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu to address the rising insecurity in Yorubaland and a brewing controversy surrounding the ascension to the throne of the Oloja of Epe.
In a letter signed by Olufunke Oluyemisi, secretary of the organisation, dated August 11, 2025, addressed to President Tinubu, the group expressed concern over escalating kidnappings, killings, and attacks by armed herdsmen and bandits across Yorubaland.
The organisation lamented the growing fear among farmers, villagers, and travellers, citing frequent massacres, rapes, and destruction of property.
“The people of Yorubaland are increasingly frustrated and desperate for protection,” the letter stated.
The group urged the federal government to deploy more security forces to restore law and order, strengthen intelligence operations to dismantle criminal networks, engage in dialogue with community leaders to address tensions, and implement stricter measures against armed groups.
The letter emphasised that “The people of Yorubaland are loyal citizens who deserve to live in peace and security.”
Also, in a separate letter to Governor Sanwo-Olu, the group raised concerns about alleged attempts to distort history regarding the ascension to the Oloja of Epe throne.
The group condemned claims by some Muslim clerics that the throne is exclusive to adherents of Islam, describing it as a misrepresentation of Yoruba tradition.
“Faith is not a prerequisite for ascension to a traditional stool. Custom demands that princes from ruling houses are presented, followed by traditional consultations by kingmakers,” the letter stated.
The group warned that failure to resolve the issue in line with Yoruba customs could lead to anarchy and communal clashes.
