The pan-Yoruba socio-political organisation, Afenifere, has slammed South-West governors over the recent attacks on schools in Oriire Local Government Area, Oyo State, describing the incidents as “alarming and unacceptable” and demanding urgent security interventions.
In a statement, Jare Ajayi, Afenifere’s National Publicity Secretary, said the organisation’s leader, Reuben Fasoranti, was deeply saddened by the attacks, which coincided with celebrations of his 100th birthday. Fasoranti reportedly sympathised with the victims and their families and prayed for the quick recovery of those injured.
The group warned that repeated attacks and abductions in the South-West and parts of Kwara State indicate a growing terrorist threat in the region. “These incidents reinforce fears that the South-West is under siege, with the potential to affect the entire southern region,” Ajayi said.
Criticising the governors, Afenifere argued that their recent actions suggest a lack of appreciation for their constitutional responsibility to protect lives and property. The group questioned the effectiveness of initiatives such as Ogun State’s CCTV infrastructure, Oyo State’s surveillance aircraft, and Ondo State’s announced security measures, urging leaders to take decisive steps.
“South-West governments must demonstrate that they are committed to safeguarding their people. Every effort must be made to ensure that no community suffers attacks by kidnappers or bandits,” the statement added, stressing that terrorists must not gain a foothold in Yorubaland, from Lagos to Kogi, including Edo and Delta states.
While sharply criticising governors, Afenifere commended Inspector-General of Police, Tunji Disu, for promptly visiting the scene of the attacks and inaugurating the Police Violent Crime Response Unit (VCRU). The group expressed optimism that the initiatives would help curb crimes and banditry in the region.
Reiterating that national security is primarily the responsibility of the Federal Government, Afenifere urged governors to fully utilise the resources at their disposal to protect their citizens and ensure their welfare.
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