Gani Adams Decries Neglect by Governors, Urges Structured OPC Collaboration to Tackle Insecurity in South-West.

Gani Adams Decries Neglect by Governors, Urges Structured OPC Collaboration to Tackle Insecurity in South-West.                                      By Yusuf Bimbo 

The Aare Ona Kakanfo of Yorubaland, Iba Gani Adams, has lamented the continued neglect of the Oodua People’s Congress (OPC) by South-West governors despite the group’s pivotal role in regional security. He called for structured collaboration and increased government support to strengthen grassroots security across the Yoruba nation.

In a bold and passionate address during the National Coordinating Council Meeting of the OPC held in Ekiti State, Iba Gani Adams expressed his displeasure over the failure of the six South-West governors to respond to a formal proposal seeking a partnership between the OPC and the 14-member South-West Security Stakeholders Group (SSSG). He noted that despite repeated appeals, no response has been received, even as the group continues to provide critical security interventions during incidents of kidnapping and banditry.

Adams emphasized that although the OPC is frequently relied upon during attacks, the constitutional responsibility of safeguarding lives and property rests squarely on the shoulders of state governors as the chief security officers. He warned that insecurity in the region may persist unless traditional and grassroots solutions are embraced and adequately supported.

Highlighting the role of traditional institutions, Adams also urged governors to invest in local festivals and culture, noting that over 25 Yoruba cultural festivals annually serve not just as heritage preservation platforms but also as spiritual channels to seek divine intervention for Nigeria’s security crisis.

Speaking earlier, the Ekiti State Coordinator of the OPC, High Chief Idowu Folorunso, appealed to the government to formally recognize and support the OPC in its efforts to complement existing security structures. Folorunso, who also serves as the Akoda Awo of Ado Ekiti and National FinancialSecretary International Ifa/Orisa Spirituality, praised Governor Biodun Oyebanji for his continued support and described him as a reliable ally in the fight against insecurity.

He also lauded the leadership of Iba Gani Adams, describing him as a visionary whose influence has continued to unify and strengthen the group across the region. Folorunso encouraged OPC members not to be discouraged by misconceptions about the organization, stating that the group remains fully active and committed to safeguarding lives and preserving Yoruba culture.

Also speaking, former Ekiti State OPC Coordinator, Comrade Olusola Ojo, described Gani Adams’ visit as a “memorable and unifying moment” that helped resolve internal leadership challenges within the state chapter. He said the visit will foster greater collaboration among members and deepen the organization’s impact.

Also speaking at the meeting were Chief Okebiorun Omosola, Chief Adedeji Olusola (Abuja Coordinator), and Chief Asikolaye Dauda (National Administrative Officer), among others, who all echoed their support for stronger recognition of OPC’s role in regional peacebuilding and cultural identity.

The Owa of Ijero-Ekiti, Oba Joseph Adebayo Adewole, also lent his voice in praise of the OPC. He applauded the group’s commitment to preserving Yoruba culture and supporting traditional rulers, and described Iba Gani Adams as “a divine gift to the Yoruba race.”

The event underscored the OPC’s unwavering resolve to remain a strong pillar in security, cultural preservation, and youth empowerment, while calling on key stakeholders across the region to embrace indigenous models in confronting the nation’s security challenges.

Also speaking, the Director-General of the Ekiti State Tourism Bureau, Wale Ojo Lanre, applauded the OPC for its efforts in promoting Yoruba identity and community development.

Ojo Lanre dismissed long-standing stereotypes labeling OPC members as “thugs,” noting that professionals such as professors, lawyers, and medical doctors are among the organization’s members.

“If we abandon our traditions, foreigners will commercialize them, and we will end up paying to see what rightfully belongs to us.That is why we are reviving festivals across the South West to preserve our heritage,” he said.

Others pictures of the event are below: