By James Ogunnaike, Abeokuta
The pan-Yoruba socio-political organisation, Afenifere, has called on security agencies to conduct a thorough investigation into allegations made by former Ekiti State Governor, Ayodele Fayose, concerning recent kidnapping incidents in Oyo State.
Fayose had reportedly suggested that the abduction of schoolchildren and teachers in the state may have been politically orchestrated to undermine the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
Speaking on Frontline, a current affairs programme on Eagle 102.5 FM, Ilese-Ijebu, Afenifere’s National Publicity Secretary, Comrade Jare Ajayi, said the claims should neither be ignored nor dismissed, stressing that all dimensions of Nigeria’s insecurity require proper scrutiny.
Ajayi said Afenifere does not have the authority to verify the allegations but insisted that security agencies must establish the facts.
“We are in a highly political period, with elections drawing closer and political activities intensifying. However, political rivalry should not be used to dismiss genuine concerns about insecurity or prevent proper investigation of allegations,” he said.
Reacting to Fayose’s comments, Ajayi said the matter deserved serious attention from relevant authorities.
“As for what he said, those with the responsibility to investigate should not overlook it. It is an area that deserves attention,” he stated.
He noted that Nigeria’s insecurity challenges were complex and could involve multiple actors.
“There are various layers to insecurity and kidnapping in Nigeria. Politicians, individuals within security agencies, community leaders, and even foreign interests may be implicated,” he said.
Ajayi further suggested that some criminal activities may be linked to illegal exploitation of resources in affected communities.
“In some cases, displaced communities later discover illegal mining activities in their abandoned areas. Questions must be asked about who benefits,” he added.
He also referenced reports of foreign nationals allegedly linked to illegal mining activities in parts of the country, including Kwara State.
Ajayi maintained that any investigation should go beyond individuals mentioned in allegations and focus on broader patterns of insecurity nationwide.
While acknowledging that the claims may appear politically motivated, he urged security agencies not to dismiss possible links between crime and political interests.
He also warned against internal compromise within security institutions, citing past incidents where security personnel were allegedly betrayed from within.
On media coverage of insecurity, Ajayi dismissed claims that reports are exaggerated, insisting they reflect realities on the ground.
He reiterated Afenifere’s call for the establishment of state police, saying it would strengthen grassroots security, improve intelligence gathering, and enhance Nigeria’s security architecture.
