Afenifere speaks on bandit threat in South-West, seeks urgent action

The pan-Yoruba socio-cultural organisation, Afenifere, has urged South-West governors to take decisive action regarding security challenges, particularly in response to the influx of bandits into the region.

This call follows a disclosure by Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, who revealed that bandits dislodged from the North-West due to military operations were relocating to parts of his state. During a security briefing, he shared a personal experience of bandits camping near his retreat location in Oyo Alaafin, emphasising the gravity of the situation.

Afenifere expressed concern that such revelations from the Chief Security Officer of a state should not be taken lightly.

The organisation therefore called for a collaborative meeting among South-West governors to strategize on measures to expel bandits and prevent further infiltration into Yorubaland.

They highlighted the importance of involving security agencies, traditional rulers, and local vigilantes in implementing these strategies.

The group emphasised the need for modern equipment, attractive incentives, and advanced technologies to combat banditry effectively. They also urged community leaders and citizens to remain vigilant and report any security threats.

Afenifere pointed out that unawareness of such grave threats, as revealed by Governor Makinde, underscores the necessity of proactive and collective efforts to address security challenges in the South-West region