Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, the Ooni of Ife, has urged for the constitutional inclusion of the Nigerian Hunter and Forest Security Service in the country’s security framework.
The NHFSS Commander General, Joshua Osatimehin, paid the monarch a visit at his palace in Ile Ife, Osun State, the statement from Abuja on Sunday said.
The traditional leader said giving constitutional recognition to NHFSS would go a long way in reducing banditry, kidnapping, Boko haram, terrorism, and other types of security challenges facing Nigeria. The traditional ruler praised the commander-general’s efforts over the years in assisting other security agencies in combating insecurity in the country.
“All well-meaning Nigerians can attest to how officers and men of the NHFSS are providing needed intelligence and other information as well as the manpower in collaboration with the police, the military, and other security agencies towards the arrest and prosecution of criminals in Nigeria, especially those happening within forests and farmlands,” the Ooni, who spoke in Yoruba, said.
Temitope Adesegun, the newest bride, and Ooni’s wedding
He claims that NHFSS’s initiatives have helped reduce crime, particularly in the forests bordering Osun State.
The Ooni also promised that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu would be briefed on the Nigerian Hunters and Forest Security Service Bill, which seeks to legalise the hunting practises of different hunter groups in Nigeria, during the meeting of traditional rulers and that logistics would be made available to help the organisation carry out its mission.
Oba Ogunwusi asked for additional measures to address the nation’s security while encouraging men and NHFSS officials to carry out their duties with assiduity and loyalty.
In the statement, Osatimehin, who had previously spoken, said he had gone to the palace to request the king’s approval and support for the NHFSS’s initiatives and programmes aimed at enhancing national security.
Additionally, he praised the king for giving him and his team a private audience in his palace.
The commander-general said the NHFSS will not give up on its mission to defend Nigerians’ lives and property by providing the essential support for information collection to the country’s relevant security institutions. He thanked the traditional ruler for his intended support of the NHFSS.
Additionally, he asked other traditional leaders in the nation for the same collaboration and assistance so that President Tinubu’s administration could advance its goals for increased security in Nigeria.
