Urges Government to Tackle Kidnapping, Drug Abuse, and Ritual Killings

By Olayinka Ajayi

The Pan-Yoruba socio-political group, Afenifere, United States chapter, has called on President Bola Tinubu’s administration and the 36 state governors to urgently address the rising wave of criminal activities among youths in the country.

The group raised concerns about the alarming increase in armed robbery, kidnapping, drug abuse, and ritual killings driven by financial motives, describing the situation as deeply troubling.

In a statement issued by Dr. Akindutire Durojaiye, President of Afenifere’s U.S. chapter, the group vowed to oppose societal elements who promote ostentatious lifestyles that lure youths into destructive behaviors.

 “We will not fold our hands and watch some undesirable elements mislead our youths to self-destruct in their pursuit of an ostentatious lifestyle,” Dr. Durojaiye said. “We believe if the Southwest becomes uncomfortable for these criminals, other state governors will follow suit, paralyzing these nefarious activities across the country and potentially driving them out for good.”

The statement highlighted the broader economic challenges and eroded value systems contributing to this crisis. It urged the Federal Government to declare a state of emergency to prevent criminality from becoming normalized.

The statement read: “Perpetrators are becoming emboldened, flaunting the proceeds of their crimes at social gatherings, on campuses, and on social media without fear of repercussions. With the Christmas and New Year celebrations approaching, the temptation for criminal acts increases.

“We call on Southwest state governors to collaborate with the Federal Government to strengthen security architecture during and after the festivities. Making the Southwest uncomfortable for criminals will serve as a deterrent nationwide.”

Acknowledging that the government cannot tackle these issues alone, Afenifere extended a call to religious leaders, urging them to encourage their congregations to reject ostentatious and questionable lifestyles.

“We appeal to religious leaders to use their sermons to inspire parents to instill family values such as morals, integrity, moderation, hard work, and contentment in their children. By promoting these virtues, youths can focus on legitimate means of livelihood instead of resorting to crime.”

Afenifere commended the Federal Government’s recent ban on public money-spraying and urged strict enforcement during the Yuletide season. The group also called on the police to ensure adequate security for safe travels and gatherings.

Additionally, Afenifere urged the National Orientation Agency (NOA) to launch awareness campaigns against drug abuse, ritual killings, and get-rich-quick schemes, emphasizing the need for constant messaging through print, electronic, and social media channels.

The group expressed hope that a collective effort involving the government, religious institutions, and community stakeholders would reshape the moral fabric of society, curbing the alarming trend of criminality among Nigerian youths.