- Afenifere condemns the killing of APC Ward 5 chairman in Ondo State.
- Outrage over the abduction of a 100-year-old traditional ruler in Kogi State.
- Afenifere calls for urgent action to address widespread insecurity.
- The group commends President Tinubu’s efforts while pushing for state police.
Afenifere Reacts to Escalating Violence
Afenifere, the prominent Yoruba socio-political organization, has expressed outrage and deep concern over the escalating incidents of violence, particularly the murder of Nelson Adepoyigi, the Ward 5 chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Ose Local Government Area of Ondo State. The group also condemned the abduction of Oba James Dada Ogunyanda Ilufemiloye, the 100-year-old traditional ruler of Okoloke, Yagba West Local Government Area of Kogi State.
A Pattern of Terror?
Afenifere’s National Publicity Secretary, Comrade Jare Ajayi, emphasized that these incidents are not isolated but part of a disturbing pattern of terrorism and kidnapping affecting various states, including Benue, Plateau, Borno, Katsina, Nassarawa, Niger, and Sokoto.
“These are not isolated incidents… We see a pattern of increasing insecurity across the nation,” Ajayi stated.
He highlighted a similar incident in Kogi State, where bandits invaded Odo-Ape in Kabba-Bunu Local Government Area, abducting eight people. Furthermore, he referenced the killing of ten people in the Werreng community of Plateau State, following the alleged killing of 40 cattle in Darwat village.
Tinubu’s Efforts Commended, But More Action Needed
Despite the grim situation, Afenifere acknowledged President Bola Tinubu’s commitment to tackling terrorism. They lauded his directives to service chiefs and his approval for establishing armed forest guards to reclaim forestlands from criminals.
The Case for State Police
Afenifere reiterated its call for the establishment of state police as a crucial strategy to combat insecurity effectively. Ajayi noted the growing consensus among state governors regarding the necessity of state police to curb banditry and other criminal activities. The Northern States Governors’ Forum and the Northern States Traditional Council have also voiced their support for the creation of state police, urging the National Assembly to expedite its implementation.
Commending Progress in Education
On a positive note, Afenifere commended the National Assembly for passing the bill to upgrade the College of Agriculture in Kabba to a University of Agriculture and the College of Health Sciences, Egbe, to a University of Medicine and Health Sciences. This move is seen as a significant boost to education and development in the region.
What’s Next? The Road Ahead
The security situation in Nigeria remains precarious, and Afenifere’s statement underscores the urgent need for decisive action. The establishment of state police, coupled with the federal government’s efforts, could be a turning point in the fight against insecurity. The coming months will be crucial in determining whether these measures can effectively address the challenges and restore peace to affected communities. The question remains: Can Nigeria turn the tide against this wave of violence?
Key Takeaways:
- Afenifere’s condemnation highlights the severity of the security crisis.
- The call for state police gains momentum amidst rising insecurity.
- Efforts to improve education offer a glimmer of hope amidst the challenges.
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