The Yoruba sociopolitical group, Afenifere, has voiced strong criticism over the handling of insecurity in Nigeria, asserting that those in power are failing to take necessary actions. In a recent statement, the organization’s spokesperson, Comrade Jare Ajayi, pointed out that the refusal of northern authorities to address banditry is having dire consequences for the entire nation.
Ajayi specifically took issue with the Katsina State government’s explanation regarding the death of General Rabe Abubakar, who they claimed died from natural causes. He argued that such narratives provide cover for criminals. “By attributing the general’s death to natural causes, the state government is essentially giving bandits a free pass to continue their atrocities,” Ajayi stated.
He further emphasized that the inaction of northern leaders is exacerbating security challenges in the southern regions, including Yorubaland. Terrorist activities in the Southwest, he noted, are linked to bandits originating from the north, a fact corroborated by security officials.
Ajayi also referenced a concerning disclosure by Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde, who revealed that abductors of schoolchildren in the state are hiding in a forest spanning ten local government areas. This revelation, according to Afenifere, underscores the severity of the security threat in the heart of Yoruba territory.
The group lamented that recent abductions of students in Oyo and Borno states have cast a shadow over Nigeria’s celebration of 27 years of uninterrupted civil rule. To combat this crisis, Afenifere called on Southwest governors to collaborate on regional security measures while pressuring the federal government to take more resolute action against insecurity nationwide.