The pan-Yoruba socio-cultural group, Afenifere, has called on South West governors to prioritize security following reports of bandits infiltrating the region.
The group’s National Publicity Secretary, Jare Ajayi, issued the appeal in a statement on Thursday in Ibadan, Oyo State.
The alarm follows a revelation by Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, during the 2025 annual inter-faith service for workers at the Secretariat, Agodi, Ibadan.
Makinde disclosed that bandits dislodged from the North-West were relocating to Oyo State due to intensified military operations in their original zones.
“During a security briefing this morning, I learned that some bad elements from the North-West are relocating here,” Makinde said, adding that during a birthday retreat in Fashola near Oyo Alaafin, bandits camped less than two kilometers from his location.
Afenifere described the governor’s disclosure as alarming and urged South West governors to urgently convene a meeting to devise strategies for expelling the bandits and preventing further infiltration into Yorubaland.
The group emphasized the importance of involving security agencies, traditional rulers, and local vigilantes in the security measures.
Ajayi also stressed the need for modern equipment, attractive incentives for security personnel, and the deployment of advanced technologies to identify and neutralize bandit hideouts.
“Traditional rulers and community leaders must not stay silent when security threats are observed,” Ajayi added. “It is vital for everyone to remain vigilant and proactive in safeguarding the region.”
Afenifere’s statement follows concerns that undisclosed bandit camps, like the one near Fashola, could exist in other parts of the South West, further underscoring the urgency of decisive action.
