Democracy is under siege as Afenifere raises concerns over rising insecurity

Nigeria’s most prominent pan-Yoruba socio-political organization, Afenifere, has expressed deep concern over the deteriorating security situation across the country, and warned that increasing kidnappings, banditry and violent attacks pose a serious threat to the country’s democratic stability.

In a statement issued by the National Publicity Secretary, Comrade Jare Ajayi, the group regretted that the increasing climate of fear and lawlessness had cast a shadow over the celebration of 27 years of uninterrupted democratic rule in Nigeria.

Afenifere pointed to recent comments by Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde, who revealed that those responsible for the abduction of school children and their teachers in Oriire Local Government Area are believed to be operating in the vast forests covering about 10 local government areas. The organization said the revelations revealed the magnitude of the security challenges facing the South West region and called for urgent intervention.

According to the group, incidents such as the kidnapping of students and teachers in Oyo and Borno states in May, as well as a number of kidnappings recorded across the country, have marred a period of national reflection and celebration of democratic progress.

Ajayi highlighted a number of recent attacks, including the kidnapping of the Odo-Oriya traditional ruler in Ondo State, Oba Adeniyi Adelana, who was captured from his palace while his wife suffered gunshot wounds in the attack.

He also cited violent attacks along the Igbeti-Igboho-Kisi corridor in Oyo State, where armed bandits reportedly killed at least two residents, as well as the kidnapping of family members in Igbope, located in Oorelope Local Government Area.

Afenifere spokesperson described the increasing pattern of attacks on traditional rulers as a disturbing development capable of diminishing the respect and authority historically associated with Yoruba kings.

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“It is embarrassing that our Obas, who were once symbols of power and authority, are now considered lame ducks,” he said.

Ajayi recalled that attacks on the royal father had continued for the past two years, referring to an attack in January 2024 in Ekiti State where gunmen ambushed a convoy carrying three monarchs. The incident resulted in the deaths of the Onimojo of Imojo-Ekiti, Oba Olatunde Samuel Olushola, and the Elesun of Esun-Ekiti, Oba David Babatunde Ogunsakin.

He further noted that the Olukoro of Koro, Oba Segun Aremu, was later murdered during an invasion of his palace, while several other traditional rulers across the country had been kidnapped or killed.

The organization also drew attention to the case of retired Major General Rabe Abubakar, a former Army spokesperson, who reportedly died while being held hostage after he and his wife were kidnapped in Katsina State. Ajayi said the tragedy underscored the severity of the country’s security crisis and reflected the growing boldness of criminal groups.

He reiterated an earlier warning issued by former Chief of Army Staff, General Tukur Buratai (rtd), that if not controlled, criminal elements would become emboldened to target governors, members of parliament and other key public officials.

“When the situation deteriorates to such a level, what is left for the country? This means that bandits will take over. But to prevent that from happening, the government and security agencies must re-strategize and be more decisive in their response,” he said.

While acknowledging recent observations by the National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, regarding the historical and socio-economic roots of insecurity in parts of northern Nigeria, Afenifere argued that governments at various levels and key stakeholders have not shown sufficient resolve in confronting the menace.

The organization stated that the remaining insecurity was largely due to the failure to prosecute criminal groups and those suspected of sponsoring them. The report warns that any efforts to minimize the threat posed by the bandits will only strengthen their resolve and expand their operational reach.

Afenifere further argued that the inability of political leaders and governments in the northern region to effectively eradicate banditry had far-reaching impacts on the people of southern Nigeria. The group noted that security agencies have repeatedly linked several criminal operations in the Southwest to networks believed to be operating from the North.

Therefore, the organization called on governors in the Southwest region to deepen cooperation on regional security initiatives while urging the Federal Government to adopt a more aggressive and comprehensive national security strategy.

According to Afenifere, restoring public confidence and protecting Nigeria’s democratic future requires decisive action against criminals and their sponsors, regardless of status, influence or geographic location.