Afenifere advocates NYSC Members to Serve Within Their Geopolitical Zones

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

This is in response to the escalating incidents of kidnapping and banditry across various parts of the country

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

The organization commended the Federal Government and security agencies for their efforts and stressed the need for provision of better equipment to enable security personnel perform optimally

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

According to the statement 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.