A prominent civic group, Majeobaje Community Development Initiative (Majeobaje CDI), has issued a stark warning over what it describes as an impending wave of terrorist threats targeting the South-West region of Nigeria.
At a press briefing held in Bodija, Ibadan, the group sounded the alarm on growing intelligence suggesting that terror networks are actively plotting to destabilize Yoruba-speaking areas with strategic economic and geographic value.
Citing a recent statement by U.S. Africa Command Chief, General Michael Langley, Majeobaje CDI drew attention to the strategic intent of terrorist factions to gain access to West Africa’s coastlines. According to Langley, securing maritime routes would enable these groups to fund their operations through illegal trade, including arms, drugs, and human trafficking—putting coastal states like Lagos and Ondo directly in their crosshairs.
The group emphasized that the region’s economic and infrastructural significance makes it a prime target. “What was once limited to scattered incidents of kidnapping and rural banditry is now evolving into a sophisticated and coordinated campaign,” the spokesperson warned. “If unchecked, this could severely undermine the safety and development of Yorubaland.”
Majeobaje CDI also criticized political leaders in the region for their perceived failure to act. It referenced national reports indicating that, while billions of naira were allocated for constituency projects, less than one percent was devoted to security. According to watchdog group BudgIT, much of the funding instead went to ICT projects and street lighting, leaving community policing grossly underfunded.
Despite the windfall revenue accruing to states due to the depreciation of the naira—which now trades at over ₦1,600 to the U.S. dollar—the group said these resources have not translated into increased public safety. “Funds are being misdirected, and vulnerable communities remain exposed while insecurity escalates,” the statement read.
In response to the growing threat, Majeobaje CDI announced an upcoming event: the Sensitization Workshop on Securing Our Communities, scheduled for July 2025 at the Hall of Chiefs in Ibadan. Renowned security experts, including Prof. Olufemi Olufunmilade and retired SSS Deputy Director General, General Kunle Togun, are expected to speak at the event, which will focus on building a collaborative and locally driven security framework.
The group further questioned why elected officials, many of whom built elaborate grassroots structures to win elections, have failed to mobilize those same networks—traditional rulers, youth groups, hunters, and women leaders—for community defense. “These leaders know the people and possess the means to act. Why are they silent now, when their action is most needed?” the group asked.
Concluding the briefing, Majeobaje CDI called for urgent leadership, unity, and action. “We are not asking for miracles,” the spokesperson said. “We are asking for our leaders to lead—for them to protect lives and heritage with the urgency the situation demands. The power to act is in their hands, and the time to act is now.”
