Yoruba Leaders Seek Funds for Security Initiatives, Eye 60-Day Turnaround

The Council of Yoruba Elders (CYE), a prominent group of Yoruba leaders, has commenced a fundraising drive to bolster security operations against banditry, kidnapping, and terrorism across ten states in Nigeria. This new initiative seeks to equip security agencies with essential resources, such as specialized equipment and operational implements, to enhance their capacity to combat criminal elements menacing communities within Yoruba-speaking regions.

Dr. Victor Taiwo, the Secretary-General of the CYE, announced this development during a press briefing held in Ibadan. He appealed passionately to affluent Yoruba indigenes and other patriotic Nigerians to contribute generously to the campaign. Taiwo explained that the proceeds from this fundraising effort would be channeled towards procuring vital security assets like surveillance drones and various other advanced gadgets to sharpen intelligence collection and operational response capabilities.

Taiwo voiced his strong conviction that this planned security intervention could drastically curb incidents of banditry, kidnapping, and terrorism in a short timeframe, provided the requisite funding is secured. He quoted, saying, “We have identified a solution that can stop banditry, kidnapping and terrorism, but we are not prepared to disclose it at this stage. What we need now are the necessary resources.” He further revealed the council's belief that once fully operational, their security strategy could yield significant positive outcomes within 60 days.

He detailed that the scope of the proposed intervention encompasses ten states: Oyo, Ogun, Osun, Lagos, Ekiti, Ondo, Kwara, Kogi, Edo, and Delta.

The CYE Secretary-General also expressed regret that his earlier warnings, dating back to 2015, regarding alleged schemes by criminal groups to extend their operations into the South-west region, had largely been ignored. Nevertheless, he asserted that the Council would not stand idly by as security challenges continue to mount.

Taiwo affirmed, “We have to find ways to halt the further expansion of banditry and secure the release of those in captivity. Yoruba people are not ready to succumb to what we perceive as threats. We will resist with all the resources available to us.”

He further disclosed that the fundraising drive had already started attracting contributions from several individuals, and he called upon more capable Yoruba sons and daughters to step forward and back the initiative.

Taiwo also highlighted the widespread impact of insecurity on various communities, alleging that 17 traditional rulers in Kwara State had been killed and that many residents had deserted their homes, fleeing from the pervasive fear of attacks.

The council additionally claimed that armed factions are actively attempting to broaden their nefarious activities into Yoruba communities, issuing a stern warning that immediate intervention is crucial to avert a worsening security crisis.

Concluding his address, Taiwo criticized political leadership for what he termed an insufficient response to the escalating insecurity, advocating for a stronger commitment from all relevant stakeholders.