Kehinde Fajobi
Afenifere, the pan-Yoruba socio-cultural organisation, has urged governors in the southwest to take decisive action against the reported influx of bandits into the region.
The group made this call in a statement issued by its National Publicity Secretary, Jare Ajayi, on Thursday in Ibadan, Oyo State.
The warning follows a recent revelation by Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde, who disclosed that bandits from the North-West were relocating to his state due to military pressure in their zones.
Makinde said during a security briefing, “I learned that some bad elements from the North-West are relocating here due to military heat in their zones.”
Sharing a personal experience, he added, “During my birthday retreat in Fashola near Oyo Alaafin in December 2024, bandits had camped less than two kilometres from where I was staying. This underscores the seriousness of the situation.”
Reacting, Afenifere stressed that such a revelation from a state governor must not be treated lightly.
The group called on the six southwest governors to convene an urgent meeting to develop strategies to eliminate bandits from the region and prevent future infiltrations.
“To achieve these objectives, it is essential to involve certain groups, including security agencies, traditional rulers, and local vigilante groups known as ‘Ode,’” Ajayi stated.
He also urged traditional leaders to actively contribute to efforts to secure the region, while advising the governors to incorporate modern, functional equipment into their security strategies.
Afenifere reiterated its commitment to ensuring peace and stability across Yorubaland.