The sociopolitical landscape of Nigeria is witnessing escalating tensions as a faction of Afenifere, a prominent Pan-Yoruba organization, criticizes President Bola Tinubu’s administration for its perceived authoritarian tendencies and inadequate response to the nation’s multifaceted security challenges. The catalyst for this latest rebuke is the government’s ban on musician Eedris Abdulkareem’s song “Tell Your Papa,” a track that serves as a poignant commentary on the controversial remarks made by the President’s son, Seyi Tinubu, regarding the state of the nation. Afenifere contends that the ban represents a direct assault on freedom of expression, a fundamental pillar of any democratic society. They argue that Abdulkareem’s song, rather than being offensive, constitutes a legitimate artistic response to Seyi Tinubu’s pronouncements, which have sparked public debate and concern. This action, in Afenifere’s view, signifies a disconcerting trend toward silencing dissenting voices and stifling creativity, ultimately hindering the progress of Nigerian society.
Beyond the specific instance of the song ban, Afenifere expresses grave concern over the escalating insecurity plaguing the nation. Citing alarming statistics from HumAngle’s Conflict Tracker, the group points to the tragic loss of 1,420 lives due to insecurity within the first three months of 2025, with an additional 537 individuals reportedly kidnapped. Recent attacks by bandits and herdsmen across various states, including Ondo, Benue, Edo, and Nasarawa, have left a trail of devastation, prompting urgent calls for the government to implement effective measures to protect its citizens. The group specifically advocates for a ban on open grazing and the adoption of ranching as a more sustainable and secure approach to livestock management, aiming to mitigate the conflicts that arise between herders and farming communities. Afenifere’s emphasis on these figures underscores their belief that the current security apparatus is failing its citizens and requires immediate and comprehensive reform.
The spate of attacks highlighted by Afenifere paints a grim picture of the security challenges facing Nigeria. In Ondo State, bandits targeted four communities in Akure North Local Government Area, resulting in the deaths of 20 people and the abduction of nine surveyors. Similarly, in Benue State, an ambush by armed herders claimed the lives of three state security personnel, triggering protests and widespread property damage. These incidents, according to Afenifere, exemplify the urgent need for a robust and effective security strategy that prioritizes the protection of lives and property nationwide. The group emphasizes that Nigerians deserve to live without the constant fear of violence and attacks, a fundamental right that is currently being denied to many due to the prevailing insecurity.
Afenifere’s critique extends beyond merely identifying the problem; they also propose concrete solutions to address the escalating security crisis. They advocate for the deployment of effective security strategies and, importantly, call for the establishment of state police forces to complement the existing internal security architecture. The group argues that relying solely on a single, centralized police force is inadequate for a nation as large and diverse as Nigeria. They believe that state police forces would be better equipped to understand and respond to the specific security needs of their respective communities, leading to more effective policing and improved security outcomes. This decentralized approach, in Afenifere’s view, is a crucial step towards ensuring the safety and well-being of all Nigerian citizens.
Underlying Afenifere’s criticisms of the current administration is their broader call for restructuring Nigeria and embracing true federalism. They argue that a restructured system, based on the principles of equity, justice, and fairness, is essential for achieving lasting peace, security, and prosperity. This restructuring, they believe, would empower states to manage their own affairs more effectively, fostering a sense of ownership and responsibility for security at the local level. By devolving power and resources to the states, Afenifere contends that Nigeria can unlock its full potential and create a more equitable and secure society for all its citizens. This fundamental shift in governance, they argue, is the key to addressing the root causes of the nation’s challenges.
In essence, Afenifere’s pronouncements represent a sharp rebuke of the Tinubu administration, accusing it of authoritarianism, inadequate security responses, and a failure to address the underlying structural issues that plague the nation. They see the ban on Abdulkareem’s song as emblematic of a broader trend toward suppressing dissent and stifling freedom of expression. Their call for enhanced security measures, including the establishment of state police forces, reflects their deep concern for the safety and well-being of Nigerian citizens. Finally, their advocacy for restructuring and true federalism underscores their belief that a fundamental change in governance is necessary to unlock Nigeria’s potential and create a more just, secure, and prosperous future for all. Their message is one of urgency, emphasizing the need for immediate action to address the pressing challenges facing the nation.
