Alaafin of Oyo Urges Traditional Leaders, Local Intelligence In Fight Against Terrorism

THE Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Abimbola Akeem Owoade, has called for the active integration of traditional rulers and native intelligence into Nigeria’s counter-terrorism strategy, emphasizing their crucial role in tackling the country’s persistent security challenges.

Addressing personnel from the Police, Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), the Amotekun Corps, and local security units set up by the monarch, Oba Owoade stressed that long-term security hinges not only on enforcement but also on addressing development deficits through people-centered strategies.

The monarch highlighted that traditional institutions remain largely underutilized despite their unique capacity to engage communities and gather intelligence. “Their deep local roots and the trust they enjoy among the populace enable them to access information and foster cooperation that formal security agencies often struggle to achieve,” Oba Owoade said.

He pointed out that native intelligence can monitor suspicious activities, track movements of unknown individuals, and detect potential threats, complementing formal intelligence mechanisms with local knowledge, terrain familiarity, and cultural insight—critical factors for effective counter-terrorism operations.

The Alaafin’s call coincided with the activation of a security task force aimed at flushing out bandits from villages and forests within Oyo metropolis and the Oke Ogun areas. The combined team is headed by Oyo Area Police Commander, Assistant Commissioner of Police Olufemi Abaniwonda.

Urging a holistic approach, Oba Owoade recommended harmonizing state security operations with local intelligence and technology deployment to enhance effectiveness. “Nigeria is not the only country facing security challenges. What matters is how we address them. Native intelligence can sustain national security operations and respond effectively to threats,” he said.

The Alaafin’s message underscores the potential of leveraging grassroots structures alongside formal security agencies to strengthen Nigeria’s fight against terrorism.