Terror and Banditry Threaten South West Stability, Afenifere Says

Ibadan, Oyo State — Thursday, 8 January 2026, 4:51pm WAT

The pan-Yoruba socio-political organisation, Afenifere, on Thursday raised serious concerns over the rising security challenges confronting South West Nigeria. The group warned that increasing incidents of violence, kidnappings, and arson now pose a direct threat to the region’s long-standing stability. It is indeed a disturbing News that Terror and Banditry Threaten South West Stability, Afenifere Says.

South West Insecurity: A Growing Crisis Across Yorubaland

In a statement issued in Ibadan on Thursday afternoon, Afenifere described recent attacks across Oyo and Ondo states as disturbing indicators of an expanding security problem. According to the organisation, criminal elements have begun operating more freely within forest corridors and rural communities, exposing farmers, forest guards, and residents to daily danger.

The group noted that several attacks occurred between Tuesday, 6 January 2026, and Wednesday, 7 January 2026, suggesting coordinated movements by armed groups. Afenifere stressed that the situation demands urgent and coordinated action from both state and federal authorities.

South West Nigeria, which had previously enjoyed relative calm compared to other regions, now faces growing uncertainty as armed groups exploit vast forest areas and poorly monitored border communities. Security analysts say these developments threaten agriculture, trade, and daily social life across the region. You can also read this one too Bandits Capture Police Inspector in Kano, Record Beating While Victims Plead for Mercy

Violent Attacks Shake Forest-Edge Communities

On Tuesday night at about 9:00pm WAT, armed men attacked a National Park Service outpost in Oloka, Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State. Witnesses reported hearing prolonged gunfire as the attackers engaged officers on duty before retreating into the surrounding forest.

Security sources confirmed that five park officers lost their lives during the attack. Reinforcements from the police and other security agencies later arrived to secure the area and prevent further escalation.

Earlier in the week, forest guards operating near the Old Oyo National Park also came under attack, resulting in multiple casualties. These incidents, according to Afenifere, demonstrate that those tasked with protecting natural reserves and rural communities are increasingly being targeted. Many people are reacting to this headline too Troops Kill Plateau Kidnappers Who Attacked Soldier During Raid

Farmers, Families, and Communities Under Threat

Beyond attacks on security personnel, Afenifere expressed concern over growing violence against civilians. On Wednesday, 7 January 2026, four farmers were reportedly killed in Igboho town, Oorelope Local Government Area of Oyo State, while returning from their farms.

The same day, suspected kidnappers abducted a nursing mother and her child in the Supare/Ajegunle area of Akoko South Local Government Area in Ondo State. The incident caused panic among residents and renewed fears about safety in rural communities.

In another troubling development, attackers set a police station ablaze in Ipele, Ondo State, during the early hours of Wednesday. Although no casualties were reported, the destruction of the facility further weakened local security presence and heightened residents’ anxiety. You may have missed this terrible news Five Farmers Dead After Suspected Herders’ Attack in Benue

Why Afenifere Warns of a Broader Threat

Afenifere’s National Publicity Secretary, Comrade Jare Ajayi, warned that intelligence reports suggest armed groups may already have established hideouts within parts of the South West. He stated that failure to address the situation promptly could lead to wider displacement, economic disruption, and increased loss of lives.

The organisation also referenced earlier security warnings issued during the festive season, noting that recent events have confirmed fears that criminal networks are gradually expanding their reach into the region.

According to Afenifere, similar attacks recorded in neighbouring states such as Kwara and Niger indicate that insecurity in the South West cannot be treated in isolation. The group stressed the importance of regional cooperation and intelligence sharing.

Terror and Banditry Threaten South West Stability: Calls for Action

Following the statement, state authorities across the South West reportedly held emergency security meetings on Thursday to review existing strategies. Sources confirmed increased patrols and surveillance in border communities, particularly in Oyo and Ondo states.

Security experts argue that long-term solutions must combine intelligence-driven operations, community engagement, and improved funding for regional security outfits such as Amotekun. They also emphasize the need for stronger collaboration between local security networks and federal agencies.

Community leaders have urged residents to remain vigilant while cooperating with security agencies. Many farmers, however, say fear has already disrupted agricultural activities, raising concerns about food security and livelihoods.

Community Impact and the Road Ahead

For residents of affected communities, daily life has become increasingly uncertain. Farmers hesitate to return to their fields, traders limit movement between towns, and families remain indoors after nightfall.

Civil society groups insist that restoring lasting peace will require sustained investment in security infrastructure, social development, and trust-building between communities and law enforcement agencies.

As investigations continue and security deployments increase, Afenifere has reiterated its call for decisive action to prevent the South West from sliding further into instability. The group insists that protecting lives, livelihoods, and regional harmony must remain a top national priority.

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