The traditional ruler of Okeigbo community in Ile-Oluji/Oke-Igbo Local Council of Ondo State, the Oluoke of Okeigbo, Oba Felix Adeoye Akintoye, has called for a paradigm shift from a government-centric security apparatus to a community-driven framework as the solution to the increasing security challenges facing the country.

Oba Akintoye, who spoke during a media briefing heralding week-long activities marking his coronation, stressed that reliance on state security agencies alone had proven inadequate, emphasising that grassroots participation remains the missing link in Nigeria’s counter-insurgency and anti-kidnapping efforts.

According to the monarch, traditional institutions are well-positioned to lead such community-based security initiatives, saying that kidnappers and bandits thrive mainly because of an unholy alliance with residents who provide intelligence, supplies, and safe havens.

The traditional ruler, while outlining an approach anchored on community education, regular orientation programmes, and active engagement of residents in neighbourhood security monitoring, stated that security must cease to be viewed exclusively as government business but rather as a collective responsibility of everyone.

He said that he had already commenced implementation of his security blueprint, having invited security experts to address the community’s monthly meeting.

The monarch, however, revealed plans to establish a housing estate in the community, disclosing that 100 acres of land have already been acquired for the first phase of the project.

He also unveiled an ongoing assessment of primary schools across the kingdom, noting that a committee has been conducting physical inspections of infrastructure and student enrolment across all primary schools in the community.

Also speaking, Chairman of the Central Working Group, Moshood Ogunlowo, disclosed that festivities would kick off with a football competition, with other activities lined up to build momentum toward the grand finale slated for April 25, which will be followed by a thanksgiving service on Sunday, April 26, 2026.

According to him, dignitaries from all walks of life, including the governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, and Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, among other top personalities, are expected to grace the occasion.

On her part, former Education Secretary of the Ile-Oluji/Oke-Igbo Local Council, Abike Oludero, said that the monarch, with his track record, would attract development to the community.