Following the recent killings of Yoruba monarchs in Ekiti and Kwara states, a group, Oodua Progressive Care Initiative (OPCI) has called on the Are Ona Kakanfo (Yoruba generalissimo), Chief Gani Adams to live up to his title and defend the South West states.

OPCI, in a statement at the weekend, in Ilorin, said “it is high time Are Gani Adams left the comfort of his home in Lagos for troubled areas in the zone.”

It argued that the recent killings of the Yoruba monarchs were a serious direct attack on Yoruba land.

The President, Alhaji Maruff Olarewaju, said the killings of the monarchs were not only devastating, “but also a reflection of the deep-rooted insecurity that has plagued our beloved nation, Nigeria.”

He urged him to relocate from his Omole abode to any of the troubled communities in the South West, saying: “Aare Onakakanfo is not a mere ceremonial appointment but a call to duty, a call to protect and defend our territories from any form of aggression.” The Yoruba people have looked up to him as a beacon of hope, a leader who would rise to the challenge and lead the charge against those who threaten our peace and security.”

He said: “The deceased were the custodians of our heritage and culture, symbolising the unity and strength of our people. Their senseless murder was not just an attack on individuals but an assault on our collective identity.”

OPCI expressed displeasure with the continuous rise in insecurity across the country, particularly Yoruba land.

It said: “the alarming rate of kidnappings, brutal killings, armed banditry, and other criminal activities have left citizens in fear and uncertainty.”

He suggested: “the situation demands urgent attention and firm action from all stakeholders, including the esteemed Aare Onakakanfo, Chief Gani Adams.

“However, his lack of proactive action and tangible results have left many disillusioned and questioning his effectiveness as a leader.

“Chief Gani Adams must awaken from his slumber and grasp the harsh reality on the ground. He must show courage, resilience, and determination by physically relocating himself from the comfort of his Omole house in Lagos to the heart of these troubled areas. If he truly wants to be an effective leader, he must lead by example and display the same unwavering commitment and sacrifice expected from his warriors,” he challenged.

He advised Gani Adams that awaiting government or individual’s financial and logistic support before taking action is a clear indication of weakness.

“A true leader does not wait for others to rally around him; rather, he takes the initiative and inspires others to follow his lead. By actively engaging in the battle against insecurity across Yoruba land.

“Chief Gani Adams can ignite a spark of hope in the hearts of the people and encourage others to join the fight,” he sought.

He acknowledged that the fight against insecurity is a daunting task, “but it is a battle that cannot be won by sitting silently or making empty promises. It requires genuine action, resilience, and unwavering determination to protect our land and people.

“Chief Gani Adams, it is time to wake up, rise up and fulfill the purpose for which you were installed as the Aare Onakakanfo.

“We call upon Gani Adams to put aside personal comfort and convenience, and become a true warrior for his people. By physically immersing himself in the troubled areas, he will be able to fully understand the gravity of the situation and devise effective strategies to combat the rising insecurity. Let this be a defining moment in his leadership, a moment that truly separates him as a warrior who can face war.

“The issue of insecurity in our land should not rely solely on the actions of the government or other individuals. Each one of us, especially leaders like Chief Gani Adams, has a role to play in ensuring the safety and well-being of our communities,” he challenged. (The Guardian)

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