Afenifere Ties Rising Terrorism to Foreign Interests
On Monday, the Pan-Yoruba socio-political group Afenifere expressed sorrow over the escalating tide of terrorism throughout Nigeria, notably affecting the North-East, North-Central, and North-West zones.
The escalation in terrorist acts has been ascribed by Afenifere, through a declaration penned by its National Publicity Secretary, Jare Ajayi, to several elements such as uncontrolled territories, insecure boundaries, an increase in arms distribution, collaboration with government officials and key personalities, obstructionist actions, external influences, and unauthorized mineral extraction.
The organization additionally attributed the strife to ethnic groups competing for control over territory, unrest in nations across the Sahel region, disputes between farmers and herders, an increasing number of young people without education, especially in the Northern areas, along with socioeconomic problems like widespread joblessness, limited government involvement, and a burgeoning attitude where accumulating wealth takes precedence regardless of the means.
Ajayi stated that when pinpointing the fundamental sources of instability, it’s evident that vast uncontrolled territories, permeable northern boundaries, an increase in weapon availability, and inadequate governmental capabilities all significantly contribute to these issues.
He mentioned that acts of sabotage committed by dishonest politicians, ethnic and religious prejudices, along with poor governance, had exacerbated the circumstances.
Ajayi pointed out that according to a statement made by the Chief of Defence Staff, Gen. Christopher Musa, in January 2025, along with a recent assertion from Benue State Governor, Hyacinth Alia, there is substantial proof indicating that external entities are exacerbating terrorism within Nigeria.
"There have been persistent reports connecting foreign entities, notably those from Mali, to assaults on Nigerian territory," he observed.
The PUNCH reports that recent banditry and terror attacks have rocked Plateau, Benue, Niger, Borno, Katsina, Zamfara, and Kwara states, resulting in substantial loss of lives and property worth billions of naira.
Afenifere pointed out that inadequate governance in Nigeria, notably within state and local governments, significantly contributes to the rise of terrorism.
Quoting the Queer Ladder Theory, the group stated, “Organised crimes thrive where the government’s ability to sanction and deter is weak, where public corruption is endemic, and where legitimate livelihood opportunities are slim.”
Regarding the rising number of under-educated young people in the Northern region, Afenifere cautioned that these individuals are being targeted more frequently by terrorist organizations as they represent an at-risk group.
"As many as 30,000 outlaws were allegedly operating in the North-West region since 2010. Regardless of security measures taken, their numbers have increased because of the large population of under-educated and unemployed young people," Ajayi stated, mirroring Chief Obafemi Awolowo’s concern that neglecting education for the impoverished could ultimately destabilize social harmony.
Afenifere connected the increasing dissatisfaction amongst young people with the "Frustration-Aggression Theory," observing that unfulfilled promises can lead susceptible youth towards violent behavior.
At the same time, the team honored their previous leader, the deceased Senator Abraham Adesanya, who passed away on April 27, 2008. They referred to him as a "giant of integrity, bravery, and unwavering national loyalty."
In an independent statement penned by Afenifere’s Organizing Secretary, Kole Omololu, the organization commended Adesanya’s legacy:
“A beacon of progressive thought and an unrelenting advocate for true federalism, Senator Adesanya’s life embodied a profound devotion to justice, liberty, and national equity. In an era of dictatorship and democratic subversion, he stood as a lone voice of moral authority, galvanising a generation yearning for a Nigeria governed by fairness and reason.”
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