The Urgent Need for Security Sector Reform in Nigeria: A Clarion Call from Iba Gani Adams
Iba Gani Adams, the Aare Ona Kakanfo of Yoruba land, has issued a resounding call for immediate action from the Federal Government of Nigeria to address the escalating insecurity plaguing the nation. Speaking at the grand finale of the 2025 Eledumare Festival in Lagos, Adams expressed profound concern over the rampant killings, kidnappings, and general state of lawlessness that has gripped several parts of the country, particularly highlighting Ondo, Plateau, and Benue States as recent "killing fields." He emphasized that these acts of violence, often attributed to armed herders and other criminal elements, represent a grave offense against the principles of peace and unity that should bind the nation together. Adams stressed that political calculations should not overshadow the urgent need for comprehensive security reforms, advocating for the establishment of state and local police forces as a crucial step towards effectively combating the pervasive insecurity.
Adams’s call for security sector reform goes beyond addressing the immediate violence. He underscores the far-reaching implications of the crisis, highlighting its potential to destabilize the nation. He draws attention to the devastating humanitarian consequences, the disruption of agricultural activities in key food-producing regions, and the chilling effect on foreign investment. The Aare Ona Kakanfo argues that the current centralized policing system is inadequate to address the complex security challenges facing the nation and that empowering states and localities with their own police forces is essential for effective crime prevention and response. This decentralization of policing powers, he argues, would allow for a more tailored and responsive approach to security, addressing the specific needs and challenges of each region.
Further emphasizing the gravity of the situation, Adams connected the rising insecurity to the looming threat of food shortages, particularly as the violence disproportionately affects Benue, Plateau, and Ondo—states known as major agricultural hubs. He noted that the insecurity discourages farming activities, disrupts food supply chains, and ultimately contributes to food scarcity and rising prices, further exacerbating the humanitarian crisis. The Aare Ona Kakanfo warned that the ongoing violence holds dire economic consequences, deterring foreign investment and hindering national development. His message was clear: decisive action is imperative to protect the lives and livelihoods of Nigerians and safeguard the future of the nation. The time for rhetoric is over; the time for concrete action is now.
Beyond his urgent call for security reforms, Adams also underscored the significance of the Eledumare Festival, a 21-day celebration of Yoruba culture and tradition. He described the festival as a dual-purpose event, both spiritual and cultural, designed to honor God (Eledumare) and promote the rich heritage of the Yoruba people. Adams emphasized the festival’s role in fostering communal harmony, promoting tourism, and stimulating local commerce. He highlighted the various humanitarian initiatives undertaken as part of the festival, including outreach to widows, visits to schools for the blind, and support for orphanages. These acts of charity, he explained, exemplify the festival’s commitment to community welfare and social responsibility.
Adams attributed the relative peace enjoyed in the South-West region to the numerous cultural festivals celebrated annually, particularly highlighting the role of the Eledumare Festival, organized by the Olokun Festival Foundation, which he leads. He posited that these festivals, with their emphasis on spiritual values and communal unity, serve as potent instruments of peace. They provide a platform for people from different backgrounds to come together, celebrate their shared heritage, and strengthen the bonds of community. The festivals, according to Adams, are not merely celebratory occasions but integral components of a broader strategy for promoting peace and stability in the region.
The Aare Ona Kakanfo expressed his vision for the Eledumare Festival to transcend national boundaries and become a platform for international cultural exchange. He announced plans to extend the festival to Brazil in May, followed by Senegal and The Gambia, further amplifying its message of peace, unity, and cultural appreciation. The grand finale of the 13th edition of the Eledumare Festival witnessed the presence of various dignitaries, including traditional rulers and community leaders, further demonstrating its significance as a unifying force within Yoruba land and beyond. The vibrant performances of numerous cultural groups added to the festive atmosphere, showcasing the rich artistic heritage of the Yoruba people. Through this festival, Adams seeks to not only preserve Yoruba culture but also to share its values of peace and harmony with the world.
