Afenifere Shocked by Terrorist Attack on Schools in Oyo

After coordinated attacks on three schools in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State, the pan‑Yoruba socio‑political organization Afenifere expressed dismay and urged state governments to take action.

In a statement released on Sunday by its National Publicity Secretary, Comrade Jare Ajayi, the organization also expressed sympathy for the families of the victims.

According to the Daily Post, terrorists on motorbikes carried out attacks on Friday against Baptist Nursery and Primary School in Yawota, Community Grammar School in Ahoro‑Esinele, and L.A. Primary School, all located in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State.

During the assaults, no fewer than 45 students were abducted.

In response, Afenifere spokesperson said that the organization’s leader, Pa Reuben Fasoranti, was saddened by the incident, which occurred during the week he celebrated his 100th birthday.

He expressed sympathy for the victims and their families and prayed for the swift recovery of the injured. He also hoped for an immediate end to the life‑threatening insecurity in the country.

Ajayi said the recent attacks intensified concerns that terrorists are determined to overrun the South‑West and eventually the entire South.

He claimed that recent actions by South‑West governors do not reflect an appreciation of the magnitude of their responsibility for the security of their territories.

He added that, since a government's primary duty is the security and welfare of its people, governments in South‑Western states must demonstrate their commitment to their constitutionally assigned responsibilities.

He urged that all measures be taken to prevent any future attacks by kidnappers and bandits in the region.

Ajayi noted that Yorubaland has been infiltrated and called on the six governors of the region to make their people's security the top priority.

He said that every necessary step must be taken to prevent terrorists from establishing a foothold in Yorubaland, from Lagos to Kogi, and including Edo and Delta states.

He added that while the federal government bears the heavy duty of ensuring the security and welfare of Nigerians, governors have a sacred responsibility to use available resources to protect their people and ensure their welfare.