Prominent Yoruba leaders have issued a strong call for unified action to defend the region against escalating banditry and terrorism. The urgent appeal was made during a significant traditional ceremony in Ondo State over the weekend.
Leaders Advocate for Territorial Defence
Basorun Seinde Arogbofa, the former Secretary-General of the pan-Yoruba socio-political organisation Afenifere, emphasised the critical need for the Yoruba people to actively defend their ancestral lands. He argued that the indigenous understanding of the local terrain provides a strategic advantage in repelling invaders and securing the region.
His position was strongly supported by Professor Abiodun Akinpelu of Lagos State University (LASU), who delivered the keynote address. Speaking on the theme 'Royalty, Defence and Protection of Oduduwa Land', Akinpelu expressed deep concern over the worsening insecurity in Yorubaland.
Synergy and Emulation of Amotekun Model
The academic charged all traditional rulers and community stakeholders to build effective synergies for regional protection. He specifically urged governors in the Southwest to emulate and expand upon the security legacy of the late former Governor Oluwarotimi Akeredolu.
"The governors should strengthen and provide adequate funding for the Amotekun Corps," Akinpelu stated, highlighting the regional security outfit as a vital model for nipping security challenges in the bud.
Beyond security, Professor Akinpelu also stressed the importance of cultural preservation. He noted that promoting indigenous languages is crucial to preventing the extinction of cultural heritage and traditions passed down by forefathers.
Coronation of a New Olukoju
The calls were made at the installation of Bakkita Bello as the seventh Olukoju of Odooko, Afa Okeagbe, in the Akoko North-West Local Government Area of Ondo State. Bello is the immediate past chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Ondo State and a former Speaker of the State House of Assembly.
The weekend ceremony was marked by the public reappearance of the community's sacred traditional 'Amgbu' regalia, which had last been seen in 1973. Professor Akinpelu described Bello's ascension as heralding an unprecedented era of peaceful growth for Okeagbe.
While presenting the staff of office, Oba Mofolorunso Adegboyega Arasanyin, the Ajana of Afa Okeagbe, underscored the pivotal role of the Olukoju dynasty as a pillar of strength and courage in protecting the community's sacred institutions.
Messages of Unity and Progress
In his acceptance speech, the new Olukoju, Bakkita Bello, thanked the Ajana-in-Council and the community. He affirmed his dedication to fostering economic growth, political development, and peaceful coexistence among the people.
The event attracted high-profile representation. The Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, was represented by Fatai Atere, a member of the Ondo State House of Assembly. Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa was represented by the Commissioner for Water Resources, Public Sanitation and Hygiene, Samson Akande. Both congratulated the community and urged continued peace and unity for collective progress.
