The Pan-Yoruba socio-political organization Afenifere has called on President Bola Tinubu to seek both local and international assistance in tackling Nigeria’s escalating security challenges. They highlight the growing threats to the nation’s sovereignty and the perceived helplessness of the Federal Government.
In a statement, Afenifere’s leaders expressed their deep concern over the ongoing violence and killings across the country, arguing that the current unitary system hinders the rights of various ethnic groups, particularly in the Middle Belt. They assert that this situation has led to ongoing governance failures, especially in protecting civilians.
The group criticized the government’s approach to negotiating with terrorists, stating that it undermines the state’s responsibility to protect its citizens and contributes to perceptions of complicity in acts of violence against specific communities.
Afenifere advocated for a restructuring of Nigeria’s federal system to empower states and ethnic nationalities, emphasizing the need for localized control over police and security measures. They also welcomed any assistance that could help safeguard the lives and rights of Nigerians, condemning the creation of internally displaced persons (IDP) camps that unfairly marginalize indigenous populations.
The organization concluded by reiterating the urgency of addressing the ongoing violence and reaffirming their support for efforts to secure justice and safety for all Nigerians.
