By Oluseye Ojo
The Yoruba Regional Alliance of Self-Determination has categorically articulated their opposition to the recently launched Miyetti Allah security network in Yorubaland.
The group, representing the South West region of Nigeria, made it clear that the presence of this nomadic vigilante group will not be accepted in Yorubaland.
The Chairman of the group, Bashorun Kunle Adesokan, and Secretary, Akinola George at a pres conference held at tbe NUJ Press Centre Iyaganku, Ibadan, expressed concerns over the activities of herdsmen and other individuals with criminal intents from the North, who have been causing unrest in the region.
They urged the Federal Government to prevent the potential anarchy that could arise if the Miyetti Allah security network is deployed to any part of Yorubaland.
“This nomadic vigilante group will be treated as an alien, invading force if they are deployed anywhere in Yorubaland,” stated Adesokan.
“We advise those interested in securing their livestock to establish ranches and ensure their animals remain within defined boundaries, without encroaching on the lands and safety of the Yoruba people.”
The group emphasised that Yorubaland has been a target for Nigeria’s jihadists, ethnic jingoists, and bandits. They highlighted the Igangan and Owo atrocities, which have yet to see the perpetrators brought to justice. Furthermore, they raised concerns about the alleged collusion between law enforcement agencies and the criminals.
“On June 5th, 2021, the peaceful town of Igangan was ruthlessly attacked, resulting in the brutal murder of over 50 innocent residents,” George recalled.
“And just a year later, on the same date, a church in Owo witnessed a mass shooting and bomb attack that claimed the lives of more than seventy people.”
The self-determination group stressed that they will not tolerate any incursion into their homeland, making references to past incidents that led to widespread unrest. “We must remember the ‘Operation Wetie’ in the 1960s and the ‘June 12’ crisis in the 1990s,” cautioned Adesokan.
The group sent a clear message to anyone considering deploying the Miyetti Allah security network to Yorubaland: “Perish the thought! Under no circumstances will they be welcome or accepted anywhere in Yorubaland.”
The Yoruba Regional Alliance of Self-Determination made it clear that their primary concern is ensuring the safety and well-being of their people. They emphasized that while other ethnic groups are free to train and deploy vigilantes, this must be done within their recognised community borders, states, or homelands, without posing a threat to their neighbours.
The group hopes that by taking a firm stance against the Miyetti Allah security network, they can prevent further violence and protect the interests of Yorubaland.