The Deji of Akureland, Oba Aladetoyinbo Ogunlade Aladelusi, has expressed deep concern over the worsening security challenges across Nigeria, particularly in the South West region, and called for intensified efforts to restore lasting peace.
Speaking when he received the Deputy Inspector General of Police in charge of the South West, DIG Fayoade Mustapha, at his palace in Akure, the monarch appealed directly to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and all security agencies to prioritize the timely rescue of kidnapped students and teachers in Oyo State.
Oba Aladelusi described the abduction of the victims as a “sad scenario” that has subjected the children and their teachers to immense emotional and mental stress, urging urgent and proactive intervention.
“We cannot rest until the battle against insurgency, kidnapping, banditry and other forms of criminality is totally won,” the Deji declared, emphasizing that security agencies must sustain momentum until peace is fully restored nationwide.
While acknowledging the ongoing efforts of the police and other security forces, the traditional ruler stressed the need for even greater commitment, including improved welfare for officers to boost morale and operational effectiveness.
DIG Mustapha commended the Deji for his support of community policing and crime prevention initiatives, reaffirming that traditional rulers play a pivotal role in security. He assured the monarch that the police are working tirelessly for the safe return of all abducted persons.
The Deji’s remarks come amid sustained security operations across Ondo State, including recent sweeps of forests and criminal hideouts by the Ondo State Police Command.