Oluwo alleges neglect of Woro victims, flags risks of foreign intervention

By Deborah Oladejo, Osogbo –

The Oluwo of Iwoland, Oba Abdulrosheed Adewale Akanbi, has commiserated with the people and government of Kwara State over the bandit attack on Woro village, which claimed the lives of more than 170 residents.

Reacting to the incident, the monarch expressed concern over what he described as low public sympathy for the victims, noting that the fatalities were Muslims and that every Nigerian life is priceless, regardless of religion or political affiliation.

“The victims of the Woro attack were all Muslims. Yet, not many stakeholders are speaking out about the dastardly waste of precious lives. Were these victims any less Nigerian than others?” he asked.

Oba Akanbi condemned the politicisation of bandit attacks, warning that no nation has successfully defeated insecurity through religious sentiment and describing such acts as unpatriotic.

He urged security agencies across the country to strengthen collaboration with local intelligence in curtailing the rampant destruction of lives and properties.

The traditional ruler also cautioned President Bola Ahmed Tinubu against foreign interference in Nigeria’s security architecture, warning that such involvement could be a ploy to divide the country along religious lines.

Oba Akanbi stated that the successes of the current Nigerian government are seen as a threat by some Western countries, noting that no Western nation is pleased to see African countries becoming peaceful. He stressed that any foreign intervention in the fight against insecurity might have ulterior motives.

“The successes of President Tinubu’s administration are viewed as a threat by western countries. The current surge in banditry is suspicious and must be handled with caution. Interactions with foreign administrations should be carefully reviewed to avoid destabilisation. African countries should not fully trust the intentions behind foreign interventions,” he said.