The Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Abimbola Akeem Owoade I, has urged Nigerians to unite towards perpetrators of bloodshed and insecurity, following the latest killings of Yoruba natives by suspected Fulani herdsmen at Oke Ode in Kwara State.
Disturbed by the incident, the monarch described the attackers as “blood guzzlers and enemies of state, nature and sound reasoning” who should not be allowed to go unpunished.
This was contained in a press release made obtainable to journalists in Oyo by the media aide to Oba Owoade, Bode Durojaiye.
Oba Owoade, who famous that Yorubas and Fulanis had lived harmoniously for many years with out hostility, expressed concern over the recurring violence linked to herders.
He disclosed that he had already reached out to the Kwara State Governor, AbdulRahman AbdulRasaq, on the matter and on attainable measures to forestall additional assaults.
In his response, Governor AbdulRasaq lauded the Alaafin’s intervention and described him as a visionary chief and “Titan of Yorubaland.” The governor additional assured the monarch {that a} battalion of troopers had been deployed to the troubled space to revive order.
The Alaafin, whereas commending safety companies for his or her dedication, urged the Federal Authorities to make sure that these chargeable for the killings are recognized and prosecuted to function a deterrent.
“Authorities, political leaders and followers will need to have the braveness and honesty to get to the foundation causes of our insecurity, now worsened by criminality, insurgency and terrorism by herdsmen,” Oba Owoade mentioned.
“Safety shouldn’t be taken without any consideration. Rapid and aware efforts should be made to design and construct a sturdy system able to making a steady and peaceable atmosphere for nationwide growth.”
Recalling the historic tolerance and coexistence between the Yoruba and Fulani communities, the Alaafin confused that his forebears had made land obtainable for cattle ranching within the Oyo Empire, even offering extra acres for Fulani herdsmen freed from cost to foster unity.
He added that disputes between farmers and herders have been historically resolved by dialogue, consensus-building and peace mechanisms entrenched in Yoruba tradition.
He, nevertheless, warned towards actions that threaten peace and stability, assuring residents of his continued dedication to the safety of lives and property throughout the area.
