Key Points
- South West leaders back state police and death penalty for kidnappers.
- Summit supports a full ban on open grazing across Yorubaland.
- Leaders push for technology-driven security units and stronger welfare for operatives.
Leaders in the South West under the South West Security Stakeholders Summit backed the push for state police and the death penalty for kidnappers.
This position aims to confront the growing security threats across the region. It also reflects concerns shared by several community groups.
The summit took place at the 10 Degrees Event Centre in Lagos. It ran under the theme Towards a United Front Against Insecurity in Yorubaland.
Iba Gani Adams, the Aare Ona Kakanfo of Yorubaland, hosted the event alongside other Yoruba leaders.
Summit Resolutions on Security Threats
In a joint communique, Gani Adams, Prof. Kolawole Raheem and Amitolu Shittu outlined concerns over violent groups targeting communities.
They argued that jihadist elements continue to push for control in parts of West Africa. Because of this, the leaders urged stronger regional cooperation.
The leaders added that kidnapping and banditry have grown into a vast network. It fuels fear, raises money for violence and threatens ancestral lands rich in minerals and farmland.
As a result, they pushed for coordinated crime prevention efforts. They also emphasised conflict resolution and structures that support peace.
Push for State Police and Technology-Driven Security Units
The communique urged South West governors to fast-track the creation of state police. It called for recruitment that prioritises local residents with reliable public safety records.
In addition, the leaders asked for a model that blends traditional community-based practices with new technology. For example, they listed drones, unmanned aerial vehicles and remote surveillance tools.
They also proposed a global volunteer programme. Yoruba professionals around the world would be able to support specialised police units.
This would happen through a structured and merit-driven process. Over time, they believe this approach will expand the region’s technical capacity.
Welfare Fund for Local Security Operatives
Governments in Yorubaland received a push to strengthen welfare support for local operatives.
The summit noted the need for pensions, life insurance and clear rank progression. It also recommended an independent Security Welfare Fund supported by residents and the diaspora.
Furthermore, the leaders suggested a non-profit initiative under the Development Agenda for Western Nigeria to complement existing welfare plans.
Ban on Open Grazing and New Ranching Framework
The leaders backed a total ban on open grazing across Yorubaland. They asked that cattle movement between states or communities shift to vehicles such as pickup trucks, articulated trucks or rail.
Each state government was encouraged to pass laws that support cattle ranches as the main model for meat and dairy production.
The Bank of Agriculture, they noted, should also support private investors who want to expand ranching operations.
Border Protection and Foreign Assistance
The communique called on the Federal Government to commence building protective fences and walls along borders with Niger, Chad, Cameroon and Benin Republic.
They also supported foreign assistance that can help Nigeria counter kidnappers, bandits and terrorists.
However, they stressed the need for clear terms that respect Nigeria’s sovereignty and international rules.
Traditional Rulers, Youth and Community Support
The leaders asked Yoruba youth to work with security agencies involved in operations against violent groups.
They also encouraged South West governors to collaborate with traditional rulers and Yoruba leaders in Kwara and Kogi on regional security issues.
For traditional rulers to carry out these duties, the summit asked that they receive constitutional responsibilities tied to intelligence gathering.
