Yoruba Elders Call for Greater Citizen Participation in Tackling Insecurity

December 17, 2025
By Ayinde Adeleke

The Yoruba Council of Elders has emphasized the need for increased citizen involvement in addressing Nigeria’s worsening insecurity challenges, saying the fight against violence cannot be left to government alone.

Nigeria has in recent months been plagued by widespread violent attacks, mass abductions, and killings across several states.

In a statement made available to The Yoruba Times, the council noted that the scale of insecurity confronting the country demands a robust and collaborative effort between the Federal Government and citizens at all levels.

The elders expressed particular concern over the frequency of attacks in Niger, Kebbi, and Kwara states, describing the situation as alarming and unsustainable.

Speaking during a courtesy visit to the Ooni of Ife Palace, the council’s President, Jibade Oyekan, described insecurity as the most pressing challenge facing the nation. The visit was hosted by the Ooni of Ife, Oba Enitan Ogunwusi.

Oyekan stressed that Nigerians must collectively take responsibility for curbing the menace, noting that security should not be seen as the exclusive duty of government agencies.

“All Nigerians must participate in curbing the menace of insecurity collectively to eradicate it,” the statement read.

The council further called on the Federal Government of Nigeria to empower traditional rulers by allowing them to fully deploy their influence and local capacity to address security challenges within their respective communities. According to the elders, such grassroots engagement would help tackle the root causes of insecurity and promote lasting peace.

On land ownership issues, the council advised landowners in Yorubaland to consider alternatives to outright land sales to non-indigenous interests. It recommended land leasing as a more sustainable option, citing the historical example of Hong Kong’s lease to the British in the 19th century. The elders argued that this approach would help safeguard the interests of future generations.

The statement comes amid growing national and international concern over Nigeria’s security situation, with the United States and other members of the international community expressing alarm over continued violence, including allegations of targeted attacks against Christian communities.

The Yoruba Council of Elders concluded by reiterating its call for unity and collective action as critical steps toward addressing the country’s deepening security crisis.