Afenifere Urges Governments to Support Ranching, Pushes for State Police

The pan-Yoruba socio-political organisation, Afenifere, has urged governments at all levels to encourage entrepreneurs and private individuals in the livestock sector to establish ranches across Nigeria. The group said such a move would curb the destruction of farmlands and help reduce persistent clashes between farmers and herders.

Meeting at the Akure residence of their leader, Pa Reuben Fasoranti, the organisation also demanded the removal of all obstacles hindering the enforcement of anti-open grazing laws passed by some state governments.

In a statement signed by its National Publicity Secretary, Jare Ajayi, Afenifere stressed the need for policies rooted in justice and fairness, noting that no community should be made to feel unsafe in its ancestral homeland.

The group acknowledged federal efforts to address economic challenges, pointing out that some positive signs were beginning to show. However, it called on government to intensify reforms so the economy could fully rebound and become more resilient.

On security, Afenifere commended the work of security agencies but maintained that more decisive measures were needed. It renewed its call for the immediate take-off of state police, echoing the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu’s suggestion that local communities be supported and funded to defend themselves.

The group further argued that fighting insecurity requires a mix of military action, dialogue, and strong community involvement, while internal saboteurs and collaborators with criminals must be identified and dealt with.

Reiterating its long-standing position, Afenifere declared that restructuring the country remains the most sustainable solution to Nigeria’s deep-rooted challenges. It urged the federal government to urgently send a restructuring bill to the National Assembly.