The Alaafin, while commending security agencies for their commitment, urged the Federal Government to ensure that those responsible for the killings are identified and prosecuted to serve as a deterrent.
“Government, political leaders and followers must have the courage and honesty to get to the root causes of our insecurity, now worsened by criminality, insurgency and terrorism by herdsmen,” Oba Owoade said.
“Security should not be taken for granted. Immediate and conscious efforts must be made to design and build a robust system capable of creating a stable and peaceful environment for national development.”
Recalling the historical tolerance and coexistence between the Yoruba and Fulani communities, the Alaafin stressed that his forebears had made land available for cattle ranching in the Oyo Empire, even providing additional acres for Fulani herdsmen free of charge to foster unity.
He added that disputes between farmers and herders were traditionally resolved through dialogue, consensus-building and peace mechanisms entrenched in Yoruba culture.
He, however, warned against actions that threaten peace and stability, assuring residents of his continued commitment to the protection of lives and property across the region.
