Traditional Rulers Urged to Join Battle Against Insecurity – Prof Halidu Abubakar

Concerns Over Rising Insecurity in Kwara North

The Emir of Ilesha Baruba, Professor Halidu Abubakar, has voiced significant concerns regarding the escalating insecurity in Kwara North. During an interview, he emphasized that neglecting traditional institutions in the fight against banditry is hindering efforts to restore peace in the region.

The Current Situation and Military Response

When asked about the current state of insecurity in Kwara, the Emir stated that there is no magic involved in addressing the issue. He suggested that intensifying military efforts and intelligence initiatives are necessary steps. However, he stressed that the involvement of traditional rulers and institutions is crucial but not yet formalized.

“Traditional rulers have ideas on how these things can be curtailed, but there is no formal way of letting them out,” he explained. “We only read or hear in the news that certain things are being done. I don’t think the involvement of traditional rulers is formalised.”

He believes that the fight against banditry should come from the grassroots, as traditional leaders understand their communities and terrain better than external forces.

Formalizing Traditional Rulers’ Role

The Emir also highlighted that discussions about formalizing the involvement of traditional rulers have been limited. He noted that in Kwara North, Emirs play a key role and are highly respected. He urged the government to listen to and support traditional leaders, who are willing to assist in maintaining security.

“We are willing to support the government,” he said. “If we are formally involved, I am sure a lot of things will change for the better.”

Military Bases and Strategic Approaches

The Emir was asked about the idea of establishing a permanent military base inside the hibernated forest. He acknowledged the challenges of keeping army detachments spread across the vast land of Kwara North and South. Instead, he suggested that combined efforts of the army, police, and Air Force should target areas most conducive for bandits to operate.

“It’s not all the places that have a conducive atmosphere for them,” he added. “We cannot have army formations in all the forests.”

Allegations of Traditional Rulers Supporting Bandits

There have been allegations that some traditional rulers are aiding bandits. The Emir admitted that while it is possible for unscrupulous individuals to act against their people, he does not believe that traditional rulers here would cooperate with bandits. He noted that some village or ward heads may claim to be traditional rulers, but that is a different matter.

“If any recognized traditional ruler here cooperates with bandits, what are they going to give us?” he questioned. “Though I am not saying it’s impossible.”

Handling Informants and Security Challenges

The Emir mentioned that informants exist within his domain, many of whom reside in the community. He described the challenge of managing these informants, especially in areas like the large Kara market, which attracts Fulanis and other groups.

“We have varying postulations on how Kwara got to this point,” he said. “Honestly, this is very unfortunate and not something that one can really say. In Nigeria, something begins somewhere and it catches on like a wildfire, especially with so much money involved and the realization that our security apparatus is weak, which encourages them.”

Impact on Development and Investment

The Emir also discussed the impact of insecurity on the development of Kwara North. He noted that it has slowed progress by scaring away investors. Two factories that had planned to set up in the area have left since the issue began. Additionally, the Kwara State University (KWASU) campus, which is supposed to resume academic activities, continues to face delays due to insecurity.

“My district here is larger than many of the local governments elsewhere,” he said. “Though we allow people to settle and farm, there are lots of areas where there are no settlements.”

Addressing Accusations Against Traditional Rulers

Some have accused traditional rulers of not doing due diligence before accommodating people. The Emir acknowledged that this has contributed to the problem but noted that they have stopped accommodating people in many communities. He emphasized that anyone coming in without a particular reason is sent back.

“There are many cases that we have dealt with, even with people in vehicles,” he said. “It’s sometimes difficult because we have a Kara market and there are limitations to how much we can do on that.”