The pan-Yoruba socio-political organisation, Afenifere, has called for a thorough investigation into the controversial kidnapping claims made by the former Governor of Ekiti State, Ayodele Fayose, concerning Oyo State
While the group lamented that insecurity has firmly established itself within the South-West region, it emphasized that allegations surrounding the orchestration of human abductions must not be handled lightly.
Afenifere’s National Publicity Secretary, Comrade Jare Ajayi, gave the reaction while speaking on Frontline, a current affairs programme on Eagle 102.5 FM, Ilese-Ijebu.
Recall that during a televised interview on Channels Television, ex-governor Ayodele Fayose claimed that the recent high-profile abduction of schoolchildren and teachers in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State may have been “orchestrated” by the Oyo State Government.
He argued, without presenting explicit evidence, that the incident was a political setup meant to embarrass and blackmail President Bola Tinubu’s administration.
Meanwhile, the Oyo State Government heavily fired back at Fayose’s claims.
The Commissioner for Information, Prince Dotun Oyelade, labelled the accusations as false, vindictive, and deceitful, adding that such reckless claims only distract security operatives from doing the delicate work of rescuing the children and teachers currently in captivity.
On his part, Governor Seyi Makinde dismissed the former governor’s remarks entirely, suggesting that Fayose “needs prayers”.
Speaking on the development, Ajayi said the claims should neither be ignored nor dismissed, stressing that all dimensions of Nigeria’s insecurity require proper scrutiny.
According to him, Afenifere does not have the authority to verify the allegations but insisted that security agencies must establish the facts.
“We are in a highly political period, with elections drawing closer and political activities intensifying.
“However, political rivalry should not be used to dismiss genuine concerns about insecurity or prevent proper investigation of allegations,” he said.
Reacting to Fayose’s comments, Ajayi said the matter deserved serious attention from relevant authorities.
“As for what he said, those with the responsibility to investigate should not overlook it. It is an area that deserves attention,” he stated.
He noted that Nigeria’s insecurity challenges were complex and could involve multiple actors.
“There are various layers to insecurity and kidnapping in Nigeria. Politicians, individuals within security agencies, community leaders, and even foreign interests may be implicated,” he said.
Ajayi further suggested that some criminal activities may be linked to illegal exploitation of resources in affected communities.
“In some cases, displaced communities later discover illegal mining activities in their abandoned areas. Questions must be asked about who benefits,” he added.
He also referenced reports of foreign nationals allegedly linked to illegal mining activities in parts of the country, including Kwara State.
Ajayi maintained that any investigation should go beyond individuals mentioned in allegations and focus on broader patterns of insecurity nationwide.
While acknowledging that the claims may appear politically motivated, he urged security agencies not to dismiss possible links between crime and political interests.
He also warned against internal compromise within security institutions, citing past incidents where security personnel were allegedly betrayed from within.
On media coverage of insecurity, Ajayi dismissed claims that reports are exaggerated, insisting they reflect realities on the ground.
He reiterated Afenifere’s call for the establishment of state police, saying it would strengthen grassroots security, improve intelligence gathering, and enhance Nigeria’s security architecture.
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