Youths in the country have been cautioned against ritual killings, cybercrime, drug abuse, and other social vices undermining cultural and moral values.
The caution was handed down by an Osun monarch, Owaloko of Iloko-Ijesa, Alayeluwa Oba Akeem Olusayo Ogungbangbe, during the 2025 annual new yam festival on Saturday.
Oba Ogungbangbe who expressed concern over the increasing cases of ritual-related killings and fraudulent practices among young people, added that the trend is “a dangerous development that must not be allowed to define the future of Yoruba land.”
Emphasising that the new yam festival goes beyond merriment, the monarch stressed 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 realise 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 traditional ruler urged parents to prioritise the moral upbringing of their children, warning that neglecting cultural and ethical teachings would deepen the erosion of values in the society.
He appealed to government and security agencies to step up efforts in addressing insecurity in South-West communities.
He also encouraged young people to embrace education, skills acquisition, and community development.
“The survival of Yoruba culture depends on the younger generation’s willingness to uphold integrity, unity, and hard work,” he maintained.
