LAGOS – The Aare Ona Kakanfo of Yorubaland, Iba Gani Adams, has called on the Federal Government to urgently restructure Nigeria’s security architecture in response to the escalating violence, kidnappings, and instability plaguing parts of the country.
Speaking during the grand finale of the 2025 Eledumare Festival in Lagos, Adams decried the wave of killings in Ondo, Plateau, and Benue States, describing them as a humanitarian crisis that undermines the peace and unity of the nation.
“These killings betray the very values of peace and communal love that should bind our society,” Adams said in a stirring keynote address. “We cannot continue to function as a nation when sections of the country are being overrun by lawlessness and unchecked bloodshed.”
He condemned the continued attacks allegedly perpetrated by armed herders and other criminal groups, particularly in Nigeria’s North Central and Middle Belt regions. According to Adams, the attacks not only claim innocent lives but also threaten food security, as the affected states play crucial roles in Nigeria’s agricultural output.
“We are witnessing an erosion of peace in key food-producing regions,” he warned. “This creates widespread fear, discourages investment, and weakens national cohesion.”
Adams stressed that the federal government’s reluctance to adopt true restructuring – especially the creation of state and local policing systems – is no longer tenable in light of present challenges.
“The time to act is now,” he declared. “We must prioritize the security of our people over political convenience.”
Beyond security concerns, Adams also spoke passionately about the importance of cultural preservation during the 21-day Eledumare Festival, organised annually by the Olokun Festival Foundation (OFF). The festival, which drew dignitaries, traditional rulers, and cultural troupes, culminated in a vibrant celebration featuring Fuji legend Saheed Osupa, sporting competitions, and humanitarian outreach.
“Eledumare Festival is more than a celebration; it’s a spiritual and cultural anchor for our people,” Adams said. “It brings communities together, promotes tourism, and reinforces peace in the Southwest.”
He attributed the relative peace in Yorubaland to the over 20 cultural festivals celebrated annually, including Eledumare, noting their profound spiritual impact on the region’s tranquility.
The OFF, which has championed the festival for over 13 years, announced plans to expand Yoruba cultural diplomacy by hosting similar festivals abroad, beginning with Brazil in May, followed by events in Senegal and The Gambia.
The grand finale was attended by traditional leaders including the Onifako of Ifako Kingdom, Oba Taofeek Fatusi, the Alakute of Akute, Oba Akindele Aliu, and the Onimarapa of Marapa, Oba Adewale Amodemaja, alongside performances from diverse cultural groups.
Adams concluded with a reminder: “Our culture is our shield. In times of crisis, it reminds us who we are and who we must remain.”
