OODUA PROGRESSIVE UNION WORLDWIDE

IBA GANI ADAMS, THE AARE ONA KAKANFO OF YORUBALAND: HIS POSITION ON INSECURITY IN YORUBALAND—A VOICE OF EXPERIENCE, STRATEGIC LEADERSHIP, AND PRACTICAL SOLUTIONS

The persistent security concerns across Yorubaland remain a matter of serious concern to citizens, traditional institutions, governments, and all stakeholders committed to peace, stability, and development within the region. In response to these realities, Iba Gani Adams, the Aare Ona Kakanfo of Yorubaland, has demonstrated principled leadership through his steadfast dedication to protecting lives and property, preserving law and order, and promoting peaceful coexistence. As the foremost traditional military leader of Yorubaland, the Aare Ona Kakanfo has repeatedly emphasized that security is a shared responsibility requiring collaboration among governments, security agencies, traditional rulers, community leaders, and the people. His advocacy has focused on strengthening lawful community-based security initiatives, improving intelligence gathering, promoting inter-agency cooperation, and advancing measures designed to address emerging threats across the region.

Over the years, Iba Gani Adams has maintained that no society can achieve sustainable development without peace and security. He has continually advocated firm but lawful action against criminality while upholding the rule of law, justice, fairness, and respect for fundamental human rights. His interventions remain guided by a deep concern for the safety, dignity, and collective well-being of the Yoruba people. It is, however, regrettable when some members of the public attempt to compare his security philosophy, experience, and leadership with those of individuals who do not possess comparable operational exposure or a comprehensive understanding of the complexities involved in security management. Such comparisons overlook the depth of practical engagement, strategic insight, and institutional knowledge required to effectively address the multifaceted security challenges confronting society. At this critical moment in our history, the call must be for unity rather than division, informed dialogue rather than misinformation, and constructive collaboration rather than unnecessary comparisons. The security of Yorubaland is a collective responsibility that demands the commitment of every stakeholder.

Iba Gani Adams has articulated a lawful, community-driven, and practical framework for addressing insecurity in Yorubaland. His proposals are rooted in experience, strategic thinking, and an unwavering commitment to the safety and well-being of the Yoruba people. We therefore respectfully call on the Governments of the South-West states to carefully consider these proposals and collaborate with all relevant stakeholders in implementing sustainable and effective measures to strengthen security across the region. Through genuine partnership, decisive leadership, and collective action, lasting peace, public confidence, and sustainable development can be achieved. The security of Yorubaland should never be politicized or reduced to unnecessary comparisons. At this defining moment, what is required is the wisdom to embrace proven experience, practical solutions, and collaborative leadership. By working together with purpose and determination, we can build a peaceful, secure, and prosperous homeland for present and future generations.
Together in Progress.

Signed: Alh (Amb.) Abiodun Luqman Adedire (Canada)
Secretary General, Worldwide
Oodua Progressive Union
Email: opu2owe@gmail.com
https://opuworldwide.org/