Afenifere urges presidency to act decisively against “festival of killings” in Kwara
Afenifere, a prominent Pan-Yoruba socio-political group, has expressed concern regarding the escalating insecurity and “festival of killings” in Kwara and Kogi states, urging the Nigerian government to take decisive action to avert further violence.
The group views these attacks as more than mere banditry, suggesting they are part of a broader, orchestrated agenda by “Fulani elites” to conquer and occupy territories of other Nigerian ethnic nationalities.
The organization has specifically highlighted the worsening security situation due to persistent attacks by what they describe as “Fulani terrorists,” leading to a breakdown of law and order and economic strangulation in affected communities.
Afenifere argues that the Nigerian state has failed in its primary duty to protect its citizens and their property, which is the fundamental essence of its existence.
They point to the overwhelming majority of Kwara State citizens being indigenous Yoruba, particularly in Kwara South, who have been subjected to continuous attacks, forcing them to desert their homes in communities such as Ologomo, Ajegunle, and Oke-Ode.
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Similarly, the Yoruba-speaking Kogi West Senatorial District has experienced no respite from these terrorists in areas like Eruku, Okoloke, and Ife-Olukotun.
Afenifere’s National Publicity Secretary, Jare Ajayi, emphasized that the level of violence and the sophisticated weaponry used in these invasions go beyond what could be attributed to local criminals or those merely seeking ransom.
The group believes these attacks indicate powerful local and international sponsors are involved. They warned that those aiding or financing these terror groups would not be immune from the chaos they are creating, citing examples from Afghanistan and Libya where destabilization led to widespread suffering.
In addition to addressing the immediate security crisis, Afenifere has called for broader reforms. They urged the federal government to accelerate its economic reform policies to strengthen the country’s economy.
The group also advocated for the urgent establishment of state police, arguing that local communities should be encouraged and funded to defend themselves.
Furthermore, Afenifere recommended the deployment of modern technology, such as drones and close-circuit cameras, to enhance security. They also called for the removal of impediments against the enforcement of Anti-Open Grazing laws passed by some state governments to curb farmer-herder clashes and destruction of farmlands.
Finally, Afenifere encouraged business entrepreneurs and individuals in the livestock sector to set up ranches as a sustainable solution.