The session, which was held at the Olusegun Obasanjo Presidential Library, Abeokuta, Ogun State, came amid agitations on the Southwest over series of kidnapping and Fulani herdsmen’s attacks and killings, in many Yoruba communities.

But in the communique jointly signed by Obasanjo and Gumi, the two elders agreed that the federal government was getting overwhelmed and should seek the collaboration of the ECOWAS, to contain the rising tide of criminalities.

“The federal government should take the issue up seriously within ECOWAS to work for a regional solution,” they affirmed.

On the immediate move to rein in the kidnappers and other criminals, Obasanjo and Gumi stated “We and, those who are ready to be weaned out of the bushes and crime.

“Settle and rehabilitate them; give them skills, empower them and was let them have employment.

“The hardened criminals must be hard hit with a stick. Unlawful carrying of the southwest is very seriously punished.”

Besides, the two leaders agreed that every community in Nigeria must be encouraged and empowered to stand firm and strong against criminals.

“There should be protected and reward covertly for whistle-blowers, against criminals living in the community.

“Special courts should be created to deal promptly with cases of banditry, kidnappings, ransom demanding, and unlawful carrying of weapons,” they urged.

As a clincher, both Obasanjo and Gumi stated that the national slogan now should be, ‘Security is the responsibility of all Nigerians’.

They agreed to sustain their collaboration in finding a lasting solution to the security challenges facing the country.

Gumi thus invited Obasanjo to Kaduna for a continuation of one of their meetings and consultations, which the latter graciously accepted.