by Nigerian News24 Correspondents
The National President of the Soludero Hunters Association, Dr. Nureni Akintola, has called on governors and traditional rulers in the South West to empower local hunters in the fight against banditry.
Speaking in an interview, Akintola said hunters possess deep knowledge of the forests and can play a crucial role in flushing out bandits, particularly in Oyo, Ondo, and Kwara States. He also proposed a partnership with Yoruba Nation agitator, Chief Sunday Adeyemo, popularly known as Sunday Igboho, to bolster regional security efforts.
“We, the hunters, know where the bandits hibernate in our forests. All we need is a nod from our kings and governors. We will not allow bandits to use our forests as cover to unleash terror on our people,” he said.
Akintola congratulated Oba Rashidi Ladoja, the Olubadan-designate, and urged him to formally engage local hunters to secure Ibadan and Oyo State. He further appealed to the Ooni of Ife, Oba Enitan Ogunwusi, and the Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Abimbola Owoade, to put aside supremacy tussles and unite for the safety of the Yoruba people.
“The issue of supremacy battles should be de-emphasized. If our traditional rulers are divided, it weakens security. Unity among kings is essential for the safety of their people,” he added.
He also called on President Bola Tinubu and traditional rulers to consider lifting restrictions placed on Sunday Igboho, describing his past role in resisting bandit attacks in the region as valuable.
Akintola stressed that improved security would not only safeguard lives and property but also attract investors to the region.