Traditional rulers from across the South-West, led by the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, have held discussions with Yoruba activist Sunday Adeyemo, popularly known as Sunday Igboho, on security and stability in the region. 

The meeting took place on Friday in Ijero Ekiti, Ekiti State, and was hosted by the Owa Ajero of Ijero, Oba Joseph Adebayo Adewole.

Monarchs from Oyo, Lagos, Ondo, Osun, Ekiti, Ogun and parts of Kwara State attended the gathering. The Ooni, who also serves as Co-Chairman of the National Council of Traditional Rulers of Nigeria and Permanent Chairman of the Southern Nigerian Traditional Rulers Council, presided over the session.

The talks focused on practical steps to strengthen security in Yorubaland, especially in rural communities that remain vulnerable to attacks. Participants examined ways traditional institutions can work more closely with community-based security outfits, including the Iru Ekun Security Network founded by Igboho.

The goal is to protect lives and property while sustaining the relative peace that currently exists in many parts of the South-West.

Traditional rulers emphasised their unique position at the grassroots. Because they live among the people and understand local dynamics, they can play a stronger role in preventing crises, mediating disputes and supporting early-warning systems.

The meeting also explored how royal fathers can complement existing security agencies rather than replace them.

The engagement comes amid ongoing concerns about banditry, kidnapping and communal tensions in parts of the region. Igboho’s Iru Ekun network has been presented as a local initiative designed to fill gaps in rural protection while operating within the law.

The Ooni had earlier this month shown support for the outfit through a substantial donation and a vehicle.

Organisers described the meeting as a stakeholders’ session aimed at building synergy between traditional leadership and community security efforts. They stressed that lasting peace in Yorubaland depends on collaboration among royal fathers, local groups and government security agencies.

The discussions are expected to produce follow-up measures that give traditional rulers a more active part in safeguarding their domains.