Insecurity: Alaafin unveils anti-banditry team, seeks stronger collaboration with security forces

The Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Abimbola Akeem Owoade, has urged the Nigerian government to include traditional rulers and local intelligence in the country’s fight against terrorism, PM News has gathered.

He said this approach is necessary to effectively address Nigeria’s complex security problems.

Recall that there has been spate of kidnappings in the country in the past few weeks.

Oba Owoade explained that true security will remain difficult to achieve unless the government tackles development challenges using strategies that genuinely benefit the people.

He made these remarks while speaking to security personnel from the Police, the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), the Amotekun Corps, and members of local vigilante groups created by the palace.

According to a statement from his media director, Bode Durojaye, the security outfit was set up to prevent bandits from entering villages and forests around Oyo and the Oke Ogun region.

The Alaafin stated that traditional rulers and local intelligence are important but often overlooked tools in Nigeria’s security efforts.

He said their close relationship with community members allows them to gather useful information and encourage cooperation in ways formal security agencies sometimes cannot.

He explained that traditional rulers can easily identify strange movements, unfamiliar faces, and suspicious activities within their communities. He added that local intelligence gives security agencies valuable background knowledge about the terrain, culture, and behaviour of the people information that is essential for effective counter-terrorism work.

Oba Owoade called on the government to improve information gathering by coordinating the roles of security agencies and using modern technology to track criminals.

He noted that many countries face security challenges, but what matters is how they respond. He said Nigeria must use native intelligence as a strong support system in its national security strategy.

The combined security team working with the palace is led by the Oyo Area Police Commander, Assistant Commissioner of Police Olufemi Abaniwonda.