Pan-Yoruba socio-political organization Afenifere has raised serious concerns over the worsening security situation in parts of South-West Nigeria, alleging that bandits and kidnappers are now making disturbing demands such as virgins and drugs during ransom negotiations.
The group expressed its concern while reacting to the increasing cases of kidnapping and criminal activities reported across several states in the region. According to Afenifere leaders, the trend shows that criminal groups are becoming more organized, emboldened, and increasingly brutal in their operations.
In a statement reported by Sahara Reporters, the organization warned that the activities of kidnappers in the South-West are becoming more alarming, with victims and their families reportedly being subjected to unusual and disturbing conditions before their loved ones are released.
Afenifere noted that in some recent kidnapping cases, the criminals allegedly demanded not only large sums of money as ransom, but also requested young women described as virgins, as well as drugs and other items as part of their negotiation terms.
The group described the development as deeply disturbing and unacceptable, warning that it reflects a growing level of desperation and lawlessness among criminal elements operating in the region.
Kidnapping for ransom has become one of Nigeria’s most serious security challenges over the past decade. Although the problem was initially more common in parts of Northern Nigeria, security analysts say the crime has gradually spread to other regions, including the South-West, which was previously considered relatively safer.
In recent years, several highways, rural communities, and even urban areas have experienced incidents involving armed kidnappers targeting travelers, farmers, students, and residents. Victims are often taken into forests or remote areas while their families are contacted to negotiate ransom payments.
Afenifere called on both the federal government and state governments in the South-West to urgently strengthen security measures in order to protect citizens and prevent the situation from worsening.
The group also urged security agencies to intensify intelligence gathering, surveillance operations, and coordinated responses aimed at dismantling criminal networks responsible for kidnappings in the region.
Security experts have repeatedly warned that the expansion of kidnapping activities across different parts of Nigeria highlights the need for stronger law enforcement strategies, better equipment for security agencies, and improved community policing efforts.
In addition, many analysts believe addressing underlying issues such as unemployment, poverty, and weak border security could help reduce the growth of organized criminal groups.
Residents in many affected communities have continued to express fear over the increasing presence of armed groups in forests and rural areas, with some communities organizing local vigilante groups to help support security efforts.
As concerns continue to grow, Afenifere stressed that urgent and decisive action is needed to prevent the situation from escalating further and to ensure that citizens across the South-West can live and travel without fear of abduction….See More
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