Pan-Yoruba socio-cultural group, Afenifere, has expressed deep concern over the growing wave of banditry and kidnapping in Nigeria, particularly in the South West region.
The group raised the alarm after a special meeting held at the residence of its leader, Chief Reuben Fasoranti, in Akure, Ondo State.
In a communiqué signed by its National Publicity Secretary, Mr. Jare Ajayi, Afenifere condemned the worsening security situation and criticized security agencies over what it described as a failure to curb the rising threats.
The group said incidents of banditry and kidnapping have become almost a daily occurrence in the South West, describing the trend as unacceptable.
It urged federal and state governments, security agencies, and community leaders to take urgent and decisive steps to address the menace.
Afenifere also sympathized with the Oluabo of Ilu-Abo, Oba Olu Falae, the people of Ilu-Abo, and the Ondo State Government over a recent terror attack in the community.
The group called for immediate action to halt what it described as increasing acts of terrorism across Yoruba land.
On regional security, Afenifere appealed to South West governors to further strengthen the Amotekun Corps to improve safety across the zone.
The organization also proposed a regional rail project linking state capitals in Lagos, Ondo, Oyo, Ogun, Osun, and Ekiti, with possible extension to Kwara, Kogi, Edo, and Delta States to enhance economic and security cooperation.
Additionally, Afenifere reviewed the newly introduced federal tax regime, warning that despite government intentions to ease the burden on low-income earners, the current structure may negatively affect them.
The group called for an upward review of the N800,000 tax threshold to ensure better protection for low-income citizens.
