The Permanent Chairman of the Southern Nigerian Traditional Rulers Council (SNTRC), Arole Oodua Olofin Adimula and the Natural Head of the Oduduwa race worldwide, the Ooni of Ife, Ooni Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, CFR, Ojaja II, has called on the Federal Government to intensify efforts towards tackling insecurity and ending the menace of banditry, kidnapping and other criminal activities threatening peace and development across the country.
In a Democracy Day message issued on Friday by the Director of Media and Public Affairs, Ooni’s Palace, Otunba Moses Olafare, the Ooni who is also the Co-Chairman of the National Council of Traditional Rulers of Nigeria (NCTRN) appealed to Nigerians to remain patient and supportive of government efforts at addressing the nation’s security and economic challenges.
The Ooni noted that no responsible government would deliberately desire insecurity within its territory, stressing that the safety of citizens remains fundamental to national growth and stability.
According to him, while security challenges persist in several parts of the country, the government at all levels must continue to strengthen security architecture, improve intelligence gathering, equip security agencies adequately and ensure that perpetrators of criminal activities are brought to justice.
“Democracy thrives best in an atmosphere of peace, security and justice. As we celebrate another Democracy Day, I urge our governments to do more in the fight against insecurity and banditry. The protection of lives and property must remain a top priority,” the Ooni stated.
The Ooni further urged Nigerians not to lose hope in the country’s democratic journey, emphasizing that national development requires collective sacrifice, patience and cooperation between leaders and citizens.
He said, “No government will wish insecurity upon its own country. While challenges remain, Nigerians should continue to support lawful efforts aimed at restoring peace and security across our communities. Together, we can overcome these difficulties and build a safer and more prosperous nation.”
The foremost monarch also called on citizens to shun divisive tendencies capable of undermining national unity, urging Nigerians irrespective of ethnic, religious or political affiliations to embrace peaceful coexistence and mutual respect.
Ooni Ogunwunsi described unity as a critical ingredient for sustainable development, adding that the country’s diversity should be viewed as a source of strength rather than division.
As part of the Democracy Day celebration, the Ooni offered ancestral prayers for peace, stability and security across the nation, seeking spiritual intervention in the efforts to defeat criminal elements and restore lasting peace to all parts of the country.
He prayed that God would grant wisdom to leaders at all levels, protect security personnel risking their lives for the nation, and bless Nigeria with greater unity, progress and prosperity.
The Ooni reaffirmed his commitment to promoting peace, dialogue and national cohesion, expressing optimism that Nigeria would emerge stronger and more united despite its present challenges.
“On this Democracy Day, let us renew our faith in Nigeria, pray for our leaders, support our security agencies and work together for a peaceful, secure and prosperous nation,” he added.