The Pan-Yoruba socio-cultural and socio-political organization known as Afenifere has expressed serious concerns regarding the rising incidents of kidnapping, banditry, attacks on security personnel, and ongoing clashes between herders and farmers in Nigeria. In an official statement released by the group’s spokesperson, Jare Ajayi, Afenifere has urged the Federal Government to take decisive steps to address the prevailing security challenges by harnessing modern technology.
Afenifere believes that the recent surge in kidnapping and banditry underscores the urgent need for the government to enforce laws and implement measures to combat these criminal activities. The organization reported that over 1,000 individuals have been abducted, with various high-profile incidents serving as grim reminders of the current security predicament.
Recent events include the abduction of three Indian nationals and a Nigerian citizen on the Sagamu-Ijebu-Ode Expressway, the tragic killing of Dr. Tiri Gyan David, a lecturer at the Federal University Dutsinma (FUDMA), and the subsequent abduction of his two children. Furthermore, multiple herders’ attacks on communities across several states, including Benue, Plateau, Niger, and Oyo, as well as suicide bombing attacks in Borno State, have contributed to the atmosphere of fear and insecurity.
The commendable actions of the Lagos State Police Command in successfully neutralizing a nine-man suspected kidnap gang within the state are noted by Afenifere. However, the organization maintains that a comprehensive review of the country’s security architecture is imperative in order to effectively address the current challenges.
Afenifere has called for the immediate implementation of government plans to engage local communities and disrupt the recruitment efforts of terrorists and kidnappers. The organization emphasized the pressing need to end the loss of lives and destruction of properties, asserting that decisive action must be taken to restore security and certainty in the lives of citizens.
In addition to community engagement, Afenifere recommended the establishment of state and local government police, as well as the deployment of advanced technologies, such as surveillance cameras and drones, to combat crimes and prevent acts of terrorism. The group firmly believes that the integration of modern security technologies will significantly enhance the efforts to eradicate criminal activities and safeguard the well-being of Nigerian citizens.
As the country continues to grapple with the escalating threats posed by kidnapping, banditry, and other criminal acts, the appeal made by Afenifere serves as a critical call to action for the government to prioritize the deployment of advanced technologies and adopt proactive security measures. The urgency of the situation demands swift and resolute action to ensure the safety and protection of all individuals across the nation.