…says attackers not mere bandits; calls for intelligence reform, and crackdown on illegal mining
Following recent attacks on communities in Kogi and Kwara States by bandits, Afenifere, the pan-Yoruba socio-political group, has called for urgent and practical reforms, including complete overhaul of intelligence-gathering strategies, accountability from security agencies or personnel who ignore intelligence reports, decisive action against illegal mining believed to be funding terrorism.
Jare Ajayi, National Publicity Secretary of Afenifere, in a press statement, decried the surge in banditry and violence in the North Central region, calling for Investigation and prosecution of suspected collaborators among locals and security personnel, temporary movement restrictions (as in Kwara) must be backed by long-term security solutions, enhanced aerial and land surveillance using kinetic and non-kinetic methods, Immediate rollout of State Police and greater use of local security structures, Increase in security manpower and modern equipment deployment, speedier trials for crimes related to insecurity, and Broader welfare reforms to address root causes of unrest.
While acknowledging President Tinubu’s Independence Day address promising stronger action on insecurity, the Pan-Yoruba organisation, warned that the situation posed a growing threat to the South-West and other parts of the Country.
Ajayi stated, “These are part of a wider agenda by terrorists, territorial expansionists, and anti-state actors to destabilize Nigeria and create illegitimate chiefdoms to the detriment of indigenous populations. The sacking of communities in Kogi, Kwara, and other Middle Belt areas are grim reminders that terrorism is advancing toward the South West.
“These are not just criminal elements looking for ransom. Their operations, weapons, and tactics point to powerful sponsorship, both locally and internationally. Kwara, known as the “State of Harmony”, has recently witnessed violent incursions, resulting in the loss of lives, destruction of property, and severe disruption to socio-economic activities.”
The sophistication of the attackers, Ajayi pointed out “suggests they are beyond herdsmen or bandits seeking pasture. The type of weapons they use, the derring-do manner with which they attack, and the intensity of the damage they inflict show clear evidence of serious backers. These could include so-called illegal miners and powerful interest groups,” he said.
He also cautioned that those enabling or supporting the attackers should remember they are not immune to the chaos they are helping to unleash.
“What is happening in Afghanistan today and what has been happening in Libya since the murder of Muammar Gaddafi should serve as clear warnings. When a country is destabilized, no one is safe — not even the sponsors”, he added.
Ajayi referenced the ongoing human rights crisis under the Taliban regime, noting that over 70 decrees had been passed in Afghanistan since 2021, many of which severely restrict the rights of women and girls.
The organisation however recommended deployment of high-capacity, well-constructed boats for public use, strict enforcement of water transport safety regulations, provision of buses and taxis to reduce reliance on risky water travel, exploration of rail line development to improve land transport, and lroactive flood prevention and stronger emergency response infrastructure.
Ajayi emphasised the need to “reign in the terror in human beings” and called on both the government and the public to nurture the values of compassion and humanity. Government must find ways to tame the brutality in society and encourage citizens to embrace the good in them. Our survival depends on it.”
Afenifere however extended condolences to victims of recent boat mishaps and floods in Kogi and Niger States, urging both State Governments to implement preventive measures.
