The Owaloko of Iloko-Ijesa, Alayeluwa Oba Akeem Olusayo Ogungbangbe, has cautioned Nigerian youths, especially those in Yoruba land and Iloko community, against ritual killings, cybercrime, drug abuse, and other social vices undermining cultural and moral values.
The monarch gave the charge on Saturday, August 23, during this year’s annual New Yam Festival in Iloko-Ijesa.
Oba Ogungbangbe expressed concern over the increasing cases of ritual-related killings and fraudulent practices among young people, describing the trend as “a dangerous development that must not be allowed to define the future of Yoruba land.”
He emphasized that the New Yam Festival goes beyond merriment, stressing that it is a cultural heritage rooted in gratitude to God and the ancestors for abundant harvests.
“This festival reminds us that diligence and patience bring reward. Our youths must realize that there is dignity in labor. Resorting to money rituals, drug use, internet fraud, or violence does not bring lasting fulfillment; it only brings shame and destruction to the community,” he said.
The monarch urged parents to prioritize the moral upbringing of their children, warning that neglecting cultural and ethical teachings would deepen the erosion of values in society.
He further appealed to government and security agencies to step up efforts in addressing insecurity in South-West communities, while encouraging young people to embrace education, skills acquisition, and community development.
Oba Ogungbangbe maintained that the survival of Yoruba culture depends on the younger generation’s willingness to uphold integrity, unity, and hard work.
Traditional chiefs and spiritual leaders prayed for the prosperity of the king and the community using palm oil, salt, afero healing water, and yam varieties before the monarch performed the symbolic breaking of yam to officially declare the festival open.
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