The pan-Yoruba socio-political organisation, Afenifere, has attributed the recent attacks on communities in Kwara and Kogi states to the activities of territorial expansionists, terrorists, and other groups allegedly working to destabilise Nigeria.
In a statement issued on Friday in Ibadan by its National Publicity Secretary, Jare Ajayi, the group condemned the violent assaults and expressed sympathy to residents of both states affected by the incidents, including those impacted by a recent boat mishap.
According to Afenifere, the ongoing wave of attacks in parts of Kwara, Kogi, and other areas of the Middle Belt underscores the growing threat of terrorism, not only to the North-Central but also to the South-West and other regions of the country.
The statement read partly, “The method of operation of the terrorists in Kwara went beyond those who are kidnapping for ransom or are just interested in finding fodder for their livestock. The type of weapons they use, the derring-do manner with which they attack, and the intensity of the damage they cause clearly indicate that they have very powerful people sponsoring them both locally and internationally.
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“The usage of the adjective ‘very’ here was deliberate with a view to underlining the deep involvement of powerful interests locally and internationally in the life-taking experiences we are having presently. So-called ‘illegal miners’ etc. could be suspected here.”
Afenifere lamented that Kwara, once known as the State of Harmony, had recently suffered devastating invasions that led to loss of lives, destruction of property, and disruption of socio-economic activities.
It warned that those aiding or sponsoring violent groups should reflect on the consequences of their actions, noting that no one would be spared if the country became unstable.
The statement continued, “However, those supporting, collaborating and sponsoring the evil doers need to remember that when the country is destabilised, they are not going to be immune. What is happening in Afghanistan presently, and what has been happening since the unwarranted ouster and murder of Muammar Gaddafi of Libya, should serve as lessons.”
Ajayi further cautioned those backing terrorists in Nigeria to understand that such elements have no regard for human life or human rights.
He said, “Not only that, they do not have respect for human rights at all, as events in various parts of the world and in some communities that terrorists occupied in Nigeria attest to. Children and family members of terrorists’ sponsors can not escape from the wrath they are bringing upon the land either.”
