Afenifere Commends Inspector-General of Police, State Governors for Intensifying Fight Against Kidnapping Across Nigeria
Yoruba socio-political group Afenifere has praised the Inspector-General of Police and state governors for stepping up efforts to combat the rising wave of kidnapping across Nigeria, while urging sustained collaboration among security agencies and state governments.
The pan-Yoruba socio-political organization, Afenifere, has commended the Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun, and state governors for intensifying efforts to curb the growing menace of kidnapping across Nigeria.
The group said recent security initiatives undertaken by the Nigeria Police Force in collaboration with state governments have begun yielding positive results, even as it urged authorities to sustain the momentum until criminal networks responsible for kidnappings are dismantled nationwide.
In a statement issued after its leadership meeting, Afenifere noted that although kidnapping remains one of Nigeria's most pressing security challenges, the renewed commitment demonstrated by law enforcement agencies and sub-national governments represents an important step toward restoring public confidence.
According to the group, coordinated intelligence gathering, improved inter-agency cooperation and increased investment in security infrastructure are beginning to produce measurable outcomes in several parts of the country.
Growing Security Collaboration
Afenifere specifically acknowledged the efforts of the Inspector-General of Police in strengthening intelligence-led policing and expanding tactical operations against kidnappers and other violent criminal groups.
The organization also praised governors who have invested in security logistics, surveillance technology, operational vehicles and support for local security initiatives aimed at complementing the work of federal security agencies.
The group observed that several states have recently recorded successful rescue operations, arrests of suspected kidnappers and recoveries of illegal firearms, reflecting improved operational coordination.
"A collaborative approach remains the most effective way to confront organized criminality. The commitment shown by the Inspector-General of Police and many state governors deserves commendation," the statement said.
Kidnapping Remains National Concern
Despite acknowledging recent progress, Afenifere warned that kidnapping continues to threaten national security, economic activities and public confidence across many regions.
The group noted that criminal gangs have increasingly targeted commuters, farmers, students, traditional rulers and residents of rural communities, creating widespread fear and disrupting livelihoods.
It stressed that addressing the problem requires sustained security operations alongside broader socio-economic measures capable of reducing youth unemployment and discouraging criminal recruitment.
The organization urged governments at all levels not to relax ongoing efforts simply because of recent successes.
Support for Intelligence-Led Policing
Afenifere endorsed the Nigeria Police Force's increasing reliance on intelligence-driven operations, arguing that proactive policing offers better results than responding after crimes have already occurred.
The group encouraged residents to continue cooperating with security agencies by reporting suspicious activities and providing timely information capable of preventing attacks.
According to the organization, public trust remains one of the most valuable tools available to security agencies combating organized crime.
It also called for stronger witness protection mechanisms to encourage citizens to volunteer information without fear of retaliation.
Governors Urged to Sustain Investment
While commending governors for recent security interventions, Afenifere appealed for continued funding of security-related programmes.
The group recommended greater investment in communication equipment, surveillance drones, forensic capabilities, modern patrol vehicles and training for security personnel.
It also advocated stronger collaboration between conventional security agencies and recognised local security outfits operating within the law.
According to the organization, effective security requires continuous investment rather than periodic responses to crises.
Addressing Root Causes
Beyond law enforcement, Afenifere emphasized the importance of tackling underlying socio-economic conditions that contribute to criminal activities.
The group called for expanded job creation initiatives, improved educational opportunities and increased support for agriculture and entrepreneurship.
It argued that reducing poverty and unemployment would help discourage vulnerable youths from joining criminal gangs involved in kidnapping, armed robbery and banditry.
Community leaders, religious organisations and traditional institutions were also encouraged to strengthen public awareness campaigns promoting peace, lawful conduct and community vigilance.
Calls for Stronger Judicial Process
The organization further stressed the need for swift prosecution of arrested kidnapping suspects to reinforce public confidence in the criminal justice system.
According to Afenifere, timely trials and appropriate punishment for convicted offenders would send a strong deterrent message to criminal groups operating across the country.
The group also advocated improved coordination between investigators, prosecutors and the judiciary to ensure that kidnapping cases progress efficiently through the courts.
Legal experts have similarly argued that successful prosecutions are essential complements to effective policing.
National Unity Against Crime
Afenifere maintained that combating kidnapping should remain a non-partisan national priority requiring cooperation across political, ethnic and regional divides.
The organisation said every Nigerian deserves to travel, work and conduct business without fear of abduction or violent crime.
It therefore appealed to citizens, civil society organizations, traditional rulers and community associations to support ongoing security initiatives while avoiding actions capable of undermining legitimate law enforcement operations.
Security Experts Welcome Remarks
Security analysts welcomed Afenifere's statement, noting that public endorsement of effective policing can strengthen cooperation between communities and security agencies.
They observed that successful anti-kidnapping operations increasingly depend on intelligence supplied by residents familiar with local environments.
Experts also emphasized the need for continuous capacity building, technological upgrades and information sharing among security agencies operating across state boundaries.
Looking Ahead
As Nigeria continues confronting evolving security threats, Afenifere expressed optimism that sustained collaboration among the Inspector-General of Police, governors and other stakeholders would further weaken kidnapping networks.
The organization urged authorities to maintain operational pressure on criminal groups while expanding preventive strategies capable of addressing the root causes of insecurity.
While acknowledging that significant challenges remain, Afenifere said recent efforts demonstrate that coordinated leadership and community participation can produce meaningful improvements in public safety.
The group reaffirmed its commitment to supporting initiatives that promote peace, security and national development, expressing hope that continued cooperation between government institutions and citizens will help restore confidence and ensure lasting security across Nigeria.