THE Pan-Yoruba socio-cultural and socio-political organization, Afenifere, raised concerns yesterday regarding the increasing incidents of kidnapping, banditry, attacks on security personnel, and ongoing conflicts between herders and farmers in the nation.
In a statement delivered by their spokesperson Jare Ajayi, Afenifere emphasized the need for the Federal Government to utilize advanced technology in addressing the persistent threats.
Ajayi stressed the resurgence of kidnapping and related criminal activities in recent months as a clear indication of the urgent action required from the government to enforce existing laws.
The organization highlighted that more than 1,000 individuals have been reported as victims of these crimes.
Drawing attention to specific events, Afenifere mentioned recent incidents such as the abduction of three Indian nationals and a Nigerian on the Sagamu-Ijebu-Ode Expressway, the tragic killing of Dr. Tiri Gyan David, a lecturer at the Federal University Dutsinma, and the subsequent abduction of his children, among other distressing occurrences.
Afenifere also referenced the army’s successful defense against suspected terrorists at the Isheke Police Station in Ebonyi State, as well as attacks by herders on communities in states like Benue, Plateau, Niger, and Oyo.
Additionally, the group noted recent suicide bombings in Borno State that resulted in numerous casualties.
Afenifere also mentioned the Lagos State Police Command’s operation that led to the elimination of a nine-member suspected kidnap gang within the state.
The organization stressed the critical need for a comprehensive review of the country’s security framework and urged immediate implementation of strategies to engage communities and disrupt the recruitment efforts of terrorists and kidnappers.
Afenifere called for the establishment of state and local government police forces, community engagement initiatives, and the adoption of modern security technologies to prevent crimes and counter terrorism effectively.
The organization emphasized the immediate installation of surveillance equipment like closed-circuit television systems and drones as part of the measures to combat the prevailing security challenges and restore safety and stability in the country.