The Olomu of Omu-Aran, His Royal Majesty, Oba (TPL) Abdulraheem Oladele Adeoti (FNITP), has urged both the Federal and Kwara State governments to intensify efforts toward securing lives and property, warning that current interventions remain inadequate against rising insecurity.
The monarch made the call on Tuesday during the annual Odun Omu-Aran held at Government Secondary School, Omu-Aran, describing security as the most pressing concern facing the community.
“Although the government is trying, their best is still not good enough for us because insecurity has become almost a daily occurrence,” Oba Adeoti said. “States that cannot afford modern security tools, especially drones being used elsewhere to combat banditry, should receive federal support.”
He noted that while communities were making efforts to protect themselves, the imbalance in firepower made local resistance difficult.
“We are not folding our arms, but you cannot compare someone holding a dane gun with a criminal wielding an AK-47. They are worlds apart,” the monarch said.
Beyond security concerns, the Olomu explained that the Odun Omu-Aran serves as a unifying platform for the people, regardless of religious or political differences.
“This festival is an annual opportunity for our sons and daughters to return home, glorify God, and reconnect with our cultural heritage,” he said. “It allows us to reflect on where we are coming from and to jointly chart the way forward for the new year.”
Speaking at the event, the National President of the Omu-Aran Development Association (ODA), Prince Omoniyi Samuel Adeyeye, expressed delight at the large turnout, describing it as a testament to the people’s commitment to their roots.
While acknowledging security challenges in the area, Adeyeye expressed optimism that the situation could be overcome with stronger government intervention. He urged authorities at all levels to scale up their efforts to protect communities.
The Chairman of the occasion, Dr. Kazeem Olayimika Salaam, also stressed the collective responsibility of indigenes in developing Omu-Aran, calling on sons and daughters of the town to contribute meaningfully to its growth.
“Much still needs to be done, particularly in the area of security,” Salaam said, while commending the federal and state governments for existing efforts. “However, more decisive actions are required to guarantee lasting peace.”
Similarly, the President of the Omu-Aran Youth Foundation Alliance (OYFA), Barrister Rufus Oyedepo, JP, urged indigenes, especially youths, to support initiatives and projects capable of driving sustainable development in the town.
News Hub reports that the festival attracted top government officials, royal fathers, captains of industry, and other distinguished personalities. The event also featured musical performances, with renowned Fuji musician, King Saheed Osupa, entertaining the crowd and adding glamour to the celebration.
News Hub further reports that the Odun Omu-Aran underscores the town’s cultural pride, communal unity, and growing call for stronger security architecture to safeguard its people and future.