Ayofe Abdullah
Yoruba nation agitator Sunday Igboho has been advised to work closely with Nigerian security agencies if he intends to support efforts aimed at tackling kidnapping and insecurity in the South-West region.
The warning came amid growing discussions over community-led efforts to confront kidnappers and other criminal elements terrorizing parts of the country, especially Yorubaland.
According to the statement, neither Igboho nor his loyalists are authorized to carry firearms under the guise of hunting criminals, stressing that security operations must remain within the control of recognized law enforcement agencies.
“Nobody will give you and your boys permission to start carrying guns up and down in the name of looking for kidnappers. We can’t run away from lions only to end up in the hands of tigers,” the statement read.
The speaker further urged anyone with useful intelligence about kidnappers or criminal hideouts to volunteer such information to security operatives instead of taking the law into their own hands.
Observers say the comment reflects increasing concerns over the rise of unofficial armed groups and the dangers associated with citizens carrying weapons without legal authorization.
Security analysts have repeatedly emphasized the need for collaboration between local communities and law enforcement agencies through intelligence gathering and lawful engagement rather than vigilantism.
The development has continued to spark reactions among residents and political observers, with many insisting that insecurity across the country requires coordinated efforts between citizens and security institutions while maintaining respect for the rule of law.