League of Imams visits Oluwo of Iwo Land, raises alarm over insecurity in Yoruba Land
By KEMI KASUMU
The monarch further suggested that the application of Shariah principles in appropriate contexts could serve as a deterrent to criminality, stressing that justice and discipline remain essential pillars for social stability.
The Registered League of Imams and Alfas, Yoruba Land, Edo and Delta States, has commended His Imperial Majesty Oba AbdulRasheed Akanbi Adewale, the Oluwo of Iwo Land, for receiving its delegation during a courtesy visit to the royal palace, where discussions focused on the worsening security situation in the land and the need for moral and societal reform.
In a communiqué issued at the end of the meeting, the Islamic clerics described the reception by the monarch as warm and engaging, noting that the visit provided an opportunity to deliberate on pressing challenges confronting Iwo Land, Yoruba Land, and Nigeria at large.
Rising Insecurity Dominates Talks
According to the League, deliberations centred on escalating cases of kidnapping, banditry, and violent crimes across parts of the South-West and the country. Participants also examined issues relating to youth development, moral decline, and the collective responsibility of leaders and citizens in nation-building.
The Oluwo reportedly expressed deep dissatisfaction with the frequency of abductions and other criminal acts, lamenting the hardship inflicted on innocent families and communities. He called for urgent and decisive measures to curb insecurity and restore public confidence in the safety of lives and property.
Call for Stronger Legal and Moral Deterrents
During the engagement, the monarch was quoted as expressing the view that many of the prevailing security challenges could have been significantly curtailed if stricter legal and moral deterrents were in place and effectively enforced.
He further suggested that the application of Shariah principles in appropriate contexts could serve as a deterrent to criminality, stressing that justice and discipline remain essential pillars for social stability.
League Reaffirms Commitment to Peace and Rule of Law
In its communiqué, the Registered League of Imams and Alfas underscored the importance of sustained dialogue on security, justice, and good governance. The body reaffirmed its commitment to promoting peaceful coexistence, lawful conduct, and respect for constituted authority.
The League also emphasised that addressing insecurity requires collaborative efforts among traditional rulers, religious leaders, government institutions, security agencies, and community stakeholders. It called for strategies that tackle the root causes of crime, including poverty, youth unemployment, and moral decadence.
Prayer for Peace and National Progress
The clerics concluded the visit with prayers for enduring peace, security, and prosperity in Iwo Land, Yoruba Land, and Nigeria as a whole. They expressed hope that collective action and responsible leadership would pave the way for stability and development across the region.
The communiqué was signed by Al Imam Engr. Abdulhakeem Demola Raji, Grand Chief Imam of Sepeteri Land and Chairman of the Planning Committee for the Registered League of Imams and Alfas, Yoruba Land, Edo and Delta States.
