The Alaafin of Oyo, Lamidi Olayiwola Adeyemi III has decried the insecurity in Nigeria, especially in the South-West geo-political zone, as well as Yoruba-speaking areas of Kwara, Kogi and Edo states.
He has therefore urged President Muhammadu Buhari to stem the tide of the marauding “Fulani pseudo herdsmen” said to the perpetrating the crimes.
The revered monarch in an open letter to President Buhari noted that he has had series of consultations with opinion leaders and imminent leaders regarding the menace of the cattle herdsmen who “rape women in presence of their husbands.”
While citing series of kidnap, rape cases, raids, and banditry in the zone, the monarch called on Mr. Buhari on “the urgency of the need to quickly respond to these and other issues concerning Yoruba land.”
“What we are witnessing in Nigeria is an anomaly because it is inconceivable that in the 21st century, when the whole world is making appreciable progress in providing enhanced standard of living, Nigerians will be living under the fear of banditry, brigandage, rape, kidnapping and terrorism.
“I trust that you will not allow this to happen and will quickly and decisively take immediate steps to re-established confidence in your government and demonstrate the capacity of the state to protect all legitimate interests,” he added.
He however warned that the Yoruba people traditionally have what it takes to defend themselves and interests against all enemy attacks, but the situation could trigger a total breakdown of law and order.