Yoruba Leaders Issue Ultimatum to Boko Haram and ISWAP: Vacate South-West Nigeria Immediately

 Yoruba Leaders Issue Ultimatum to Boko Haram and ISWAP: Vacate South-West Nigeria Immediately

In a decisive move to safeguard the South-West region of Nigeria, prominent Yoruba leaders have delivered a stern ultimatum to Boko Haram and Islamic State's West Africa Province (ISWAP) operatives: vacate the area or face dire consequences. This warning underscores the region's unwavering commitment to preserving its security and cultural integrity.

Rising Concerns Over Insurgent Infiltration

Recent intelligence has revealed a significant influx of suspected Boko Haram and ISWAP militants into the South-West, particularly within the forests surrounding Ilesha and Ile Ife. Reports indicate that over 30,000 individuals, predominantly from northern Nigeria, have established settlements in these areas under the guise of mining activities. This development has raised alarms about potential insurgent encroachment into previously unaffected regions.

Gani Adams' Unyielding Stance

Iba Gani Adams, the Aare Onakakanfo of Yorubaland and leader of the Oodua Peoples Congress (OPC), has been vocal about the looming threat. He emphasized the urgency of the situation, stating, "We are worried about the influx of Boko Haram fighters into the South-West. We have discussed this at the Aare-in-Council meeting, OPC meetings, and the South-West Security Stakeholders’ group." Adams further highlighted the strategic establishment of these settlements, noting, "We have seen camps of over 30,000 northerners around the Ilesha and Ile Ife forests. They have created villages there, but no Yoruba people are living there. Unfortunately, most of the communities in Ilesha have been overrun by these mining activities."

Calls for Proactive Governance

The Yoruba Council of Elders (YCE) has echoed Adams' concerns, urging South-West governors to take immediate action. Chief Oladipo Oyewole, the YCE's Secretary-General, emphasized the region's vulnerability due to its porous borders, stating, "The infiltration of bandits into the forests of North-West to Osun and Oyo states is of great concern to all. For anyone who knows the geography of those areas, it is porous and accessible. Those descriptions alone must be seen as a source of worry for Yorubaland." 

Historical Context and Regional Implications

Boko Haram, officially known as Jamā'at Ahl as-Sunnah lid-Da'wah wa'l-Jihād, has primarily operated in Nigeria's northeastern regions since its inception in 2002. The group's recent movements into the South-West signify a potential shift in strategy, aiming to expand their influence and operational base. This encroachment threatens the relative peace of the South-West and poses significant security challenges.

Community Vigilance and Preparedness

In response to these developments, local security outfits, including the Soludero Hunters' Association, have been mobilized to monitor and counter any insurgent activities. The collaboration between traditional leaders, community-based organizations, and state authorities is crucial in fortifying the region's defenses against potential threats.

The ultimatum issued by Yoruba leaders serves as a clarion call for immediate action to prevent the spread of insurgency into Nigeria's South-West. It underscores the necessity for heightened vigilance, proactive governance, and community collaboration to safeguard the region's security and cultural heritage. As the situation unfolds, the resolve of the Yoruba leadership stands as a testament to their commitment to peace and stability.