Afenifere Urges FG To Allow NYSC Members Serve Within Their Geopolitical Zones

The pan-Yoruba socio-political group, Afenifere, has called on the Federal Government to permit graduates participating in the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) to serve within their respective geopolitical zones.

Naija News reports that this recommendation comes in response to the escalating incidents of kidnapping and banditry across Nigeria.

Afenifere’s appeal follows the successful rescue of kidnapped NYSC members who were traveling from Akwa Ibom to Sokoto State.

The organization praised the Federal Government and security agencies for their efforts but emphasized the need for better equipping security personnel to enhance their performance.

In a statement released by Afenifere’s National Publicity Secretary, Jare Ajayi, the group reiterated its stance that NYSC participants should be assigned to serve within their home regions, rather than being posted to distant parts of the country.

The statement pointed out that despite some security successes, the overall situation remains dire, with many Nigerians facing significant threats from kidnappers and bandits.

Ajayi highlighted the growing fear of kidnappers and bandits, who are increasingly targeting groups and high-profile individuals.

He urged the government to address the root causes of these security challenges, particularly in areas where government presence is weak or nonexistent.

Afenifere also expressed concern over the lack of government control in certain regions, making them vulnerable to criminal activities by terrorist groups, traffickers, and other lawless elements.

The group pointed to the porous borders, which facilitate the influx of small arms and light weapons from the Sahel region, as a key factor contributing to the rise in crime and banditry.

Furthermore, Afenifere criticized the impact of illegal mining, which has led to poor governance in affected areas.

This, in turn, has resulted in inadequate service delivery, displacement of local populations, and increased unemployment among farmers and youths who are forced off their lands.

These conditions, the organization warned, make people more susceptible to being recruited into banditry and other criminal activities.