A prominent traditional spiritual leader in Ibadan, Chief Olayiwola Bankole Adisa, popularly known as Oluwo Agbaye, has urged Nigerians, particularly the Yoruba people, to return to their ancestral deities and traditions as the only hope to ending terrorism, kidnapping and banditry in the country
Speaking during an interview with journalists while reacting to the recent abduction of schoolchildren in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State, the traditional leader described the incident as a painful reminder of the nation’s deteriorating security situation.
According to him, no parent could hear about the kidnapping of innocent schoolchildren without feeling grief and anger.
“This matter is of urgent importance. Nobody can hear what happened to the Oriire children and not feel pain or anger. We all have children in universities, secondary schools and primary schools,” he said.
The spiritual leader argued that traditional Yoruba institutions and spiritual practices once maintained security and social order, but their abandonment has fueled the current crisis.
“The only hope we have of not being wiped out is for us to return to the ways of our forefathers and seek the spiritual roots that founded us,” he stated.
Oluwo Agbaye insisted that Nigeria’s security challenge requires both physical and spiritual solutions, and that the wisdom of past generations must not be discarded.
“If we want things to return to normal and insecurity to end, we must return to our forefathers’ ways, Ogun worship, masquerade traditions and Ifa consultation. Our ancestors did not rely on guns and cutlasses alone; they used spiritual strength”
He expressed deep concern for the abducted Oriire children and their families, demanding urgent action for their safe return.
“Our traditional religion still exists, and we continue to pray. Every Monday, we pray for Nigeria and for the release of the Oriire children,” he added.
The traditional ruler also called for unity among Yoruba people, saying a collective approach is needed to confront criminal elements threatening lives and property.
“He further called for unity among Yoruba people, saying collective action and a shared sense of purpose would strengthen efforts to confront criminal elements threatening lives and property
