The pan-Yoruba socio-political organization Afenifere, under the leadership of Pa Reuben Fasoranti, has called for urgent restructuring of Nigeria and the establishment of state police to tackle the country’s escalating security and economic crises. The resolutions were issued after the group’s caucus meeting on Monday, April 7, at the Akure residence of its leader.
The meeting, presided over by Basorun Seinde Arogbofa, expressed grave concerns over the surge in kidnapping, terrorism, and banditry across Nigeria, particularly in Yorubaland. Afenifere highlighted the worsening security situation in states such as Ogun, Ondo, Osun, Lagos, Ekiti, and Oyo, as well as in Kogi, Plateau, Benue, and others.
“We are alarmed by the resurgence of criminal activities in these regions and demand immediate action,” the communiqué stated. The group urged the National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, to collaborate with state governors to overhaul the nation’s security framework. “The federal government must address the root causes of insecurity decisively,” Afenifere emphasized.
Reiterating its long-standing demand for state police, Afenifere called on Southwest governors to bolster regional security networks like Amotekun. “Amotekun personnel must be increased, better trained, and equipped with modern technology, including drones, to combat these threats effectively,” the group said. It also urged governors to monitor herders accused of terrorizing farmers, stressing the need to safeguard food production.
On agriculture, Afenifere pressed state governments to revive abandoned farm settlements and empower local governments to establish new ones. “Farm inputs should be subsidized, and food must be made affordable for ordinary Nigerians,” the communiqué read. The group also advocated for the use of Yoruba as a primary language in elementary schools and legislative proceedings to preserve cultural heritage.
Afenifere acknowledged President Bola Tinubu’s efforts in fulfilling some of their previous demands, including the ongoing dualization of the Ore-Ondo-Akure Road and reconstruction of the Ibadan-Oyo-Ogbomoso Road. However, it urged the president to expedite Nigeria’s transition to true federalism. “Restructuring remains the most viable solution to our nation’s deep-rooted challenges,” the group asserted.
The meeting also congratulated Oba Abimbola Akeem Owoade on his installation as the 46th Alaafin of Oyo and mourned the passing of former Oyo Governor Victor Omololu Olunloyo. “We extend our condolences to Governor Seyi Makinde and the people of Oyo State, praying for the peaceful repose of the late governor’s soul,” the communiqué stated.
The resolutions were signed by Comrade Jare Ajayi, National Publicity Secretary of Afenifere, as the group reinforced its push for systemic reforms to stabilize Nigeria.
