The pan-Yoruba socio-political organization, Afenifere, has urged the Federal Government to allow graduates performing their mandatory one-year National Youths Service Corps (NYSC) programme to serve within their geopolitical zones.
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This advice comes amidst the increasing rate of kidnapping and banditry across the country.
In a statement by its National Publicity Secretary, Mr Jare Ajayi, Afenifere commended the Federal Government and security agencies for rescuing kidnapped NYSC members who were on their way from Akwa Ibom to Sokoto State.
However, the organization reiterated its advocacy for NYSC members to serve within their geopolitical zones, citing the security challenges facing the country.
Afenifere observed that the recent incidents of kidnapping and banditry have created an atmosphere of fear among citizens, with kidnappers now targeting groups and high-profile individuals.
READ ALSO: Remaining Kidnapped NYSC Members Rescued in Zamfara
The organization stressed that the prevalence of ungoverned or under-governed spaces, porous borders, and illegal mining activities have contributed to the rise in criminal activities.
“The porosity of the borders has increased the influx of small arms and light weapons from the Sahel region, heightening the incentives for crimes and banditry.
“Illegal mining has created room for poor governance in the areas affected, resulting in poor service delivery, displacement of the local people, increasing unemployment, and making them ready recruits for banditry.” Ajayi said.
