…as Ado-Ekiti celebrates Udiroko ’26 in grand style
Adebayo Adenrele
The Ewi of Ado-Ekiti, Oba Rufus Adejugbe Aladesanmi III, has called on Nigerian security agencies to deploy modern technology and adopt a more sophisticated and decisive approach to tackle the growing threat of banditry, kidnapping and other forms of insecurity across the country.
The monarch made the call in Ado-Ekiti during the grand finale of 2026 edition of the Udiroko Festival in Ado-Ekiti, themed “Udiroko as the Signpost of Our History, Tradition and Cultural Values”.
Oba Aladesanmi expressed concern over the worsening security situation in the country, particularly the increasing incidents of mass kidnapping of schoolchildren and teachers, as well as the killing of innocent citizens.
He said the scale of insecurity had become a source of serious concern, stressing that security agencies at all levels must intensify their efforts to protect lives and property.
While commending President Bola Tinubu, Ekiti State Governor, Biodun Oyebanji and other stakeholders who contributed to the rescue of victims abducted in Eda-Oniyo, the traditional ruler urged security agencies not to relent in their efforts to safeguard citizens.
He stressed that the protection of citizens must remain a priority at all levels of government, particularly as insecurity threatens the safety of communities, access to education and the general wellbeing of Nigerians.
His words, “I pray that our country overcomes its current security challenges. The security situation everywhere is highly troubling, with the mass kidnappings of school children and teachers, and the wanton killings of innocent people.
“While I thank the President of this country, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the Governor of Ekiti State, Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji and all the people that participated in the release of all our people kidnapped at Eda-Oniyo, I hereby call on Nigerian security organs at all levels to do more to ensure the safety of the citizenry.
“It is increasingly obvious that the security agencies must employ technology, craftiness and ruthless sophistication to arrest the unrepentant onslaught of these bandits all over the country”.
The Ewi also used the occasion of the Udiroko Festival to underscore the importance of preserving Ekiti’s history, traditions and cultural values, while drawing attention to issues affecting the wellbeing and security of the people.
The annual festival brings together traditional institutions, government officials, indigenes and residents to celebrate Ado-Ekiti’s cultural heritage and reaffirm the community’s commitment to its historical and traditional values.
