Calls on FG, Osun State government to take proactive measures.

The Osun State Council of Obas, under the leadership of Ooni of Ife, Arole Oodua, Ooni Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi CFR, Ojaja II who serves as the permanent chairman of the Council, has appealed to the Federal Government and the Osun State Government in particular, to provide immediate and sustained security support to the vulnerable areas in the state, in order to safeguard the lives and properties of citizens.

In a statement signed on behalf of the Council by His Royal Majesty, Oba (Dr) Michael Odunayo Ajayi Arowotawaya II, the Elerinmo of Erinmo-Ijesha, the Council made the call, stemming from the outcome of the crucial meeting held at Ooni’s palace on Thursday 9, April 2027, to deliberate on pressing issues affecting the peace, security, and wellbeing of monarchs and their people.

The Council, after extensive deliberations, expressed deep concern over the rising insecurity, particularly the increasing cases of kidnapping in border communities across the state.

It noted with grave concern, the disturbing incidents in Ora-Igbomina, located in Ifedayo Local Government Area at the extreme northeastern boundary of Osun State, sharing borders with Kwara and Ekiti States as brought to the notice of the council by Kabiyesi Asaooni of Ora-Igbomina.

The statement mentioned the first reported kidnapping incident that occurred on December 15, 2025, involving a retired Customs officer, Mr. Emmanuel Owolabi, who was held captive for one month before regaining freedom.

It also, noted a second incident recorded on February 1, 2025, where two individuals, Sunday Oyekanmi Adeyeye and Sunday Adewumi, were abducted from their residences.

In addition, the communique described how similar incidents occurred in communities, such as Ikonifin which shares boundary with Oyo State that has also been experiencing increasing cases of kidnapping, thereby posing a serious threat to lives and properties within these regions.

In view of these developments, the Osun State Council of Obas strongly emphasizes the urgent need for enhanced security presence and proactive measures across all border communities in the state.

The Council calls on security agencies and relevant authorities to intensify surveillance, strengthen intelligence gathering, and deploy necessary resources to curb the menace of kidnapping and criminal activities.

The Council also appeals to the Osun State Government and the Federal Government to provide immediate and sustained security support to all these vulnerable areas, in order to safeguard the lives and properties of citizens.

Furthermore, the traditional rulers reiterated their commitment to supporting all lawful efforts aimed at restoring peace and security, while also encouraging residents to remain vigilant and cooperate with security agencies by providing credible information.

The Council reaffirmed that the safety of the people remains paramount and that collective action is required to address the current security challenges facing the state.