Afenifere Defends Igboho Over Anti-Kidnapping Campaign

The pan-Yoruba socio-political organisation, Afenifere, has defended Yoruba self-determination advocate, Sunday Adeyemo, popularly known as Sunday Igboho, over his recent actions against kidnappers in parts of Yorubaland.

NEWSNGR reports that the group said the safety and security of citizens must remain the priority.

In a statement by its National Publicity Secretary, Jare Ajayi, Afenifere warned individuals and groups threatening Igboho over his campaign against kidnapping, banditry and terrorism in the South-West.

According to the group, Igboho “is not threatening any particular ethnic group but individuals and groups who are engaged in terror acts in Yorubaland.”

Afenifere said there was nothing wrong with Igboho demanding the release of kidnapped victims in the Igboho-Igbeti-Kisi axis of Oke-Ogun, Oyo State, provided he did not act violently or break the law.

“Since he was not violent in his actions nor conduct himself in a manner that violates the laws of the land, calling on the authorities to deal with him borders on blackmail and an attempt to call a dog a bad name with a view to having it hanged,” the statement read.

Igboho had reportedly visited his hometown of Igboho last weekend, where he issued a two-hour ultimatum for the release of a pregnant woman and two other kidnap victims.

He also warned Fulani persons involved in kidnapping and other crimes to desist, while assuring law-abiding non-indigenes that they had nothing to fear.

His remarks drew criticism from groups including the Arewa Consultative Forum, Northern Elders Forum, Coalition of Northern Groups and Concerned Fulani People of Nigeria, who urged President Bola Tinubu and Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde to call him to order.

Afenifere Backs State Police

Afenifere also commended Tinubu for transmitting the State Police Executive Bill to the National Assembly, urging lawmakers and governors to expedite action on the proposal.

The group said state police had become necessary to strengthen local intelligence and improve response to kidnapping, banditry and terrorism.

“They should recruit people without criminal tendencies, train and equip them properly and complement their efforts with needed technology. They should also be properly motivated in terms of remuneration and have life insurance for them,” Afenifere said.

The organisation urged northern leaders to focus on tackling poverty, unemployment, lack of education and other factors fuelling criminal recruitment, rather than criticising those demanding protection for their communities.