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 and criminal elements operating in parts of the South-West.
Drivetvnews gathered In a statement issued by its National Publicity Secretary, Jare Ajayi, the organisation argued that Igboho’s interventions were directed at criminality and insecurity rather than any ethnic group. According to Afenifere, the activist’s focus has been on individuals involved in kidnapping, banditry, terrorism and other violent crimes affecting communities in Yorubaland.
The organisation’s position followed recent security concerns along the Igboho–Igbeti–Kisi axis of Oyo State, where incidents of kidnapping have generated public anxiety. In response to reports of abductions, Igboho reportedly issued demands for the release of kidnapped victims and warned criminal elements operating in the area.
His comments drew criticism from several northern organisations, including the Arewa Consultative Forum, Northern Elders Forum and other groups, which condemned the tone of his statements and called on authorities to intervene.
Rejecting those criticisms, Afenifere maintained that communities have a legitimate right to demand protection from criminal violence and argued that there was nothing unlawful in calling attention to security threats affecting local residents.
The organisation stated that Yorubaland has historically been known for accommodating Nigerians from different ethnic and regional backgrounds and insisted that law-abiding residents, regardless of origin, have nothing to fear.
Afenifere further argued that growing insecurity in parts of the region has been linked to criminal activities such as kidnapping, destruction of farmlands and violent attacks on rural communities. According to the group, public frustration has been driven primarily by concerns over safety and the protection of lives and property.
The organisation also suggested that illegal mining activities may be contributing to insecurity in some areas, alleging that criminal groups often exploit instability to gain access to natural resources.
Addressing the broader security situation, Afenifere urged leaders across the country to focus on tackling the root causes of crime, including poverty, unemployment, inadequate education and the marginalisation of young people.
The group also welcomed President Bola Tinubu’s move to forward a State Police Bill to the National Assembly, describing it as a significant step toward improving security management in Nigeria.
According to Afenifere, state police could strengthen intelligence gathering, improve rapid response capabilities and bring security operations closer to local communities. The organisation called on the National Assembly, state legislatures and governors to expedite action on the proposal.
It further urged state governments to prepare for the implementation of state policing by ensuring proper recruitment standards, adequate training, modern equipment, fair remuneration and insurance coverage for personnel.
Afenifere concluded that the protection of lives and property should remain a national priority and should not be undermined by ethnic, political or sectional interests.
