The Oodua Peoples Congress (OPC), Yoruba Council of Elders (YCE), and Soludero Hunters’ Association have issued a stern warning to Boko Haram and Islamic State in West Africa Province (ISWAP) sleeper cells to vacate the South-West region or face immediate consequences.
The warning follows alarming reports of over 30,000 individuals, identified as northerners, occupying forests around Ilesha and Ile Ife.
This development has sparked fears of potential insurgent activities in the region.
Speaking on the matter, Iba Gani Adams, the Aare Onakakanfo of Yorubaland, expressed concerns over the infiltration of the Southwest by fleeing Boko Haram and ISWAP militants from the northern regions.
He highlighted that these groups are allegedly taking advantage of mining activities in the area to establish camps, effectively creating villages in the forests without any Yoruba presence.
Adams also criticized the lack of response from South-West governors despite multiple appeals and letters urging coordinated action to address the threat.
He called for collaboration between local security groups and state authorities to prevent an escalation of insecurity.
The South-West security architecture, including police, Amotekun corps, and local hunters, is reportedly on high alert to counter any potential threats.
Adams emphasized the readiness of these groups, noting their extensive structures, resources, and expertise in addressing such challenges.
Amotekun’s South-West chairman, Chief Adetunji Adeleye, disclosed plans for a joint forest patrol aimed at flushing out bandits and other criminal elements.
Adeleye assured the public of ongoing efforts to protect the region, while withholding specific strategies for security reasons.
The Yoruba Council of Elders (YCE) has also raised the alarm over the presence of bandits in forests stretching from the Northwest to Osun and Oyo states.
In a statement by its Secretary-General, Chief Oladipo Oyewole, the YCE urged state governments to act swiftly, describing the situation as a significant threat to the region’s stability.
The porous nature of the affected areas, coupled with the ease of access, has heightened security concerns among stakeholders, who are calling for immediate measures to safeguard the Southwest.
With tension rising over the influx of militants and the apparent lack of action by authorities, local security groups and community leaders are stepping up to confront the looming threat.
The Southwest’s united front signals a strong resolve to protect its territory and citizens from the growing menace.
