Prominent Yoruba leaders have launched a fundraising campaign aimed at strengthening efforts to combat banditry, kidnapping, and terrorism across the South-West and other affected parts of Nigeria.
The initiative, unveiled at a gathering of traditional rulers, community leaders, business executives, and other stakeholders, seeks to mobilize financial resources to support community-based security initiatives, intelligence gathering, and the acquisition of equipment needed to improve local security operations.
Speaking at the launch, the organizers said the growing threat posed by armed criminals has become a major concern for residents, farmers, and businesses, making it necessary for communities to complement the efforts of government security agencies.
According to the leaders, the campaign is intended to provide logistical support for legally recognized security outfits, enhance surveillance in vulnerable areas, and promote closer collaboration between local communities and law enforcement agencies. They stressed that all activities under the initiative would be carried out within the framework of the law.
The organizers also called on corporate organizations, philanthropists, professional associations, and members of the Yoruba community both at home and abroad to contribute to the fund. They described security as a collective responsibility that requires the active participation of all citizens.
Traditional rulers and community representatives at the event expressed concern over the increasing cases of kidnapping, attacks on rural communities, and threats to agricultural activities, noting that insecurity has affected economic growth and the livelihoods of many families.
Security experts welcomed the initiative, saying community support can play an important role in improving intelligence gathering and strengthening crime prevention efforts when coordinated with government agencies. They, however, emphasized the need for transparency, accountability, and strict oversight in the management of the funds.
The fundraising campaign is expected to continue in the coming weeks, with additional stakeholder engagements planned to broaden participation and mobilize greater support for efforts aimed at restoring peace and enhancing security across the region.
