Monarch Advocates Community-Driven Security Framework to Tackle Kidnappings and Banditry
The Oluoke of Okeigbo, Oba Felix Adeoye Akintoye, has called for a fundamental shift from a government-centric security approach to a community-driven framework as the solution to Nigeria's escalating security challenges, particularly kidnappings and banditry. The traditional ruler, who is the 18th monarch of the Okeigbo community in Ile-Oluji/Oke-Igbo Local Council Area of Ondo State, made this appeal during a press briefing marking his coronation week-long activities.
Grassroots Participation as the Missing Link
Oba Akintoye emphasized that reliance solely on state security agencies has proven inadequate, highlighting that grassroots participation remains the critical missing link in Nigeria's counter-insurgency and anti-kidnapping efforts. He stressed that traditional institutions are uniquely positioned to lead community-based security initiatives, noting that kidnappers and bandits often thrive due to collusion with local residents who provide intelligence, supplies, and safe havens.
The monarch outlined a comprehensive approach anchored on:
- Community education programs to raise awareness
- Regular orientation sessions for residents
- Active engagement of community members in neighbourhood security monitoring
"Security must cease to be viewed exclusively as government business but rather as a collective responsibility of everyone," Oba Akintoye declared, adding that he has already begun implementing his security blueprint by inviting security experts to address the community's monthly meetings.
Development Initiatives for Okeigbo
Beyond security concerns, the monarch revealed ambitious development plans for his community. With over three decades of experience in real estate and serving as president of the Real Estate Developers Association of Nigeria (REDAN), Oba Akintoye disclosed plans to establish a housing estate in Okeigbo that would rival developments in Lagos.
"A parcel of land has been acquired for the first phase of this project, approximately 100 acres," he announced, though noting he couldn't provide full disclosure of all details yet. The monarch expressed confidence that Okeigbo would soon join the league of communities with significant estate developments.
Educational Assessment and Coronation Festivities
In the educational sector, Oba Akintoye unveiled an ongoing assessment of primary schools across his kingdom. A committee has been conducting physical inspections of infrastructure and student enrolment across all primary schools in the community to boost educational standards.
The coronation festivities, as detailed by High Chief Moshood Ogunlowo, Chairman of the Central Working Group, will feature a football competition and various activities building toward the grand finale on April 25, followed by a thanksgiving service on April 26, 2026. Dignitaries expected to attend include Ondo State Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa and the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi.
Community Confidence in Leadership
Former Education Secretary of the Ile-Oluji/Oke-Igbo Local Council, Abike Oludero, expressed confidence in the monarch's ability to attract development to the community. "He has shown leadership for a long time," she remarked, highlighting his business acumen, legal background, and position as REDAN president as assets that would enable him to handle the community's developmental needs effectively.
The monarch's call for community-driven security represents a significant paradigm shift in addressing Nigeria's security challenges, emphasizing local ownership and traditional leadership in combating crimes that have increasingly plagued various regions of the country.
