The pan-Yoruba socio-political organization, Afenifere, has voiced serious concerns regarding the deteriorating security situation in Nigeria, the persistent hardships faced nationwide, and the inability of successive administrations to enact genuine federalism through restructuring.
Following a caucus meeting at the Akure residence of its leader, Pa Reuben Fasoranti, OFR, the group reaffirmed its belief that restructuring is the most effective remedy for the country's numerous issues.
The session, attended by representatives from various Afenifere State Chapters, including those from Kogi and Kwara States, was led by Basorun Seinde Arogbofa, OFR, after a welcoming speech by Pa Fasoranti.
As stated in the communiqué released after the meeting and signed by the National Publicity Secretary, Comrade Jare Ajayi, Afenifere expressed significant concern over the increase in banditry, kidnapping, and extrajudicial killings in several regions, particularly within the South-West states of Ogun, Ondo, Osun, Lagos, Ekiti, and Oyo.
Other states affected include Kogi, Plateau, Benue, Anambra, Edo, Nasarawa, Niger, and Kaduna.
The statement reads: "The Federal Government and security agencies must urgently reevaluate the nation's security framework. The National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, must work alongside State Governors to develop a comprehensive strategy to address the underlying causes of insecurity and tackle them decisively."
The group specifically urged South-West governors to enhance Amotekun, the regional security agency, through increased funding, training, motivation, and the incorporation of modern technology like drones for crime tracking and combating.
In response to the Supreme Court ruling that affirmed financial autonomy for local governments, Afenifere supported the decision and encouraged grassroots communities to monitor the utilization of their local government allocations closely.
The group also called on governors to fully collaborate with the Federal Government for the immediate enforcement of the court’s decision.
While emphasizing that the time for establishing State Police is now, Afenifere urged governors to address the issue of herders devastating farmlands and threatening farmers.
“Identify these herders and, crucially, track down the owners of the cattle that are ruining the lives of our people,” the group insisted.
Concerning agriculture, Afenifere recommended that Yoruba state governments revive the traditional farm settlement system, empower local governments to create community farms, and ensure that farm inputs are provided at subsidized rates to enhance food security.
The pan-Yoruba organization advocated for the promotion of the Yoruba language as a primary medium of instruction in nursery, primary, and junior secondary schools across Yoruba-speaking regions. It also urged the Houses of Assembly in the area to conduct legislative activities in the language where feasible.
While expressing gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for ongoing initiatives like the dualization of the Ore-Ondo-Akure road and the reconstruction of the Ibadan-Oyo-Ogbomoso road, Afenifere reminded him of his long-held advocacy for genuine federalism.
"We urge President Tinubu to expedite restructuring for the sake of peace, fairness, and national development," the group stated, encouraging the Federal Government to prioritize the Ibadan-Ife-Ilesa road along with other vital infrastructure highlighted in a previous position paper submitted to the President.
The meeting congratulated Oba Abimbola Akeem Owoade on his accession as the 46th Alaafin of Oyo, expressing optimism that his reign would enhance the Yoruba nation.
