Pan-Yoruba socio-political organisation, Afenifere, has warned that the recent attacks on communities in Kwara and Kogi states were deliberate attempts by “territory expansionists, terrorists, and disgruntled elements” to destabilise Nigeria.
In a statement issued on Friday by its National Publicity Secretary, Jare Ajayi, in Ibadan, the group also sympathised with the governments and people of both states over the insecurity and a recent boat mishap.
According to Afenifere, the sacking of communities in Kwara, Kogi, and other parts of the Middle Belt was a grim reminder of the dangers terrorism poses to the South-West and other regions.
Ajayi said, “The method of operation of the terrorists in Kwara went beyond those who are kidnapping for ransom or just seeking fodder for livestock. The type of weapons they use, the derring-do manner with which they attack, and the intensity of the damage clearly indicate that they have very powerful people sponsoring them both locally and internationally.”
Naijaonpoint reports that he stressed that the deliberate use of the word “very” was to underline the depth of involvement of powerful interests behind the violence.
The group further alleged that the violence might be linked to so-called “illegal miners” and other shadowy backers profiting from instability.
“Kwara, known as the ‘State of Harmony’, was lately invaded with lives lost, properties destroyed, and socio-economic activities severely disrupted. However, those supporting, collaborating and sponsoring the evil doers need to remember that when the country is destabilised, they are not going to be immune,” Afenifere secretary warned.
It added that global examples such as Afghanistan and Libya should serve as lessons for those aiding terror.
Ajayi further cautioned that the same violence being nurtured by sponsors could one day consume their families.
“Hard-hearted elements with power can be very deadly. Not only that, they do not have respect for human rights at all, as events in various parts of the world and in some Nigerian communities show. Children and family members of terrorists’ sponsors cannot escape from the wrath they are bringing upon the land either,” he said.
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