May 03, 2025
By Adedoja Adesoja
Afenifere, a pan-Yoruba socio-political organization, has rejected claims by the Arewa Consultative Forum alleging growing hostility and violence against northerners living in the South.
The ACF had expressed concerns over alleged attacks on northerners, warning of rising alienation that could threaten national unity.
Afenifere’s National Publicity Secretary, Jare Ajayi, described ACF’s claims as misleading and politically motivated.
“No northerner is being maltreated in the South simply for being a northerner. That assertion is a faulty generalisation,” Ajayi said.
Ajayi questioned the ACF’s claim about discriminatory federal policies against the North.
“It is ironic that someone of his standing would suggest that, when it is well known that many federal policies actually favour the North more than other regions,” he said.
Ajayi challenged the ACF to address the plight of people in Benue, Plateau, and Southern Kaduna who have suffered violence and displacement.
He supported the call for restructuring as a lasting solution to perceived imbalances in the federation.
“Each region has what it takes to thrive. The time has come for restructuring to address marginalisation and empower all parts of the country to develop according to their aspirations,” Ajayi said.
