…as Ado-Ekiti celebrates Udiroko 2026 in grand style
The Ewi of Ado-Ekiti, His Imperial Majesty Oba Rufus Adeyemo Adejugbe Aladesanmi III, has called on Nigerian security agencies to deploy modern technology and adopt a more decisive, “ruthless” approach to tackle banditry, kidnapping and other security threats plaguing the country.
The monarch made the appeal on Wednesday during the grand finale of the 2026 Udiroko Festival in Ado-Ekiti. This year’s theme was “Udiroko as the Signpost of Our History, Tradition and Cultural Values.”
Oba Aladesanmi expressed deep concern over the worsening security situation nationwide, citing the mass abduction of schoolchildren and teachers, and the killing of innocent citizens.
“The security situation everywhere is highly troubling, with the mass kidnappings of school children and teachers, and the wanton killings of innocent people,” the Ewi said.
He commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Ekiti State Governor Biodun Oyebanji, and all stakeholders who facilitated the rescue of victims abducted in Eda-Oniyo. However, he urged security agencies not to relent.
“It is increasingly obvious that the security agencies must employ technology, craftiness and ruthless sophistication to arrest the unrepentant onslaught of these bandits all over the country,” he stated.
The monarch stressed that the protection of lives and property must remain a top priority for all levels of government, especially as insecurity now threatens education, community safety and national wellbeing.
Beyond security, Oba Aladesanmi used the Udiroko platform to emphasize the need to preserve Ekiti’s history, traditions and cultural values.
The annual Udiroko Festival brings together traditional rulers, government officials, indigenes and residents to celebrate Ado-Ekiti’s heritage and reaffirm the community’s commitment to unity and cultural identity. The 2026 edition was celebrated in grand style with large turnouts and cultural displays.
