Afenifere Diaspora USA has warned that “Nigeria Under President Bola Tinubu’s administration is sitting on a leg of gunpowder,” saying urgent action is needed to avoid serious social, political, and security consequences.
The Yoruba socio-cultural group stated this in a communiqué issued following its general meeting and signed by its chairman, Prof Sikiru Fadairo, Vice Chairman, Chief Frank Adetu and its Secretary of Afenifere Diaspora USA, Comrade David Adeyinka Adenekan.
The group noted that its deliberations focused on worsening insecurity, rising petroleum costs and economic hardship, and the need to strengthen democratic institutions and uphold the rule of law.
It stated that members expressed “grave concern over what they described as a dangerous convergence of insecurity, economic distress, and growing public disillusionment with governance.”
On security, the organisation stated that “self-preservation is the first law of nature” and it is “the primary responsibility of every government to guarantee the security of lives and property.”
It demanded decisive action against Boko Haram, Ansaru, Lakurawa, Terrorist Herdsmen, ISWAP, bandits, and kidnappers, recalling General Sani Abacha’s words: “If an insurgency lasts more than twenty-four hours, the government is complicit.”
It questioned why killings, attacks on farming communities, and kidnappings persist despite huge security budgets, noting that many rural areas have been abandoned, farmers cannot access land, food insecurity has worsened, schools are shut, and businesses have collapsed.
Afenifere Diaspora USA cautioned that Nigeria “must not be allowed to drift toward another civil conflict,” warning the consequences for a nation of over 250 million would be catastrophic for West Africa.
It called for investment in surveillance, drones, satellite intelligence, and data-driven policing, plus better coordination and border security.
The group also demanded the arrest of terrorist sponsors, an end to amnesty and reintegration for terrorists, and faster progress on state police, questioning why the Tinubu administration “has not moved more decisively” despite past support for restructuring.
It said indigenous outfits like Amotekun, Iru Ekun led by Sunday Igboho, and hunters’ groups should be formalized because “security is local and is best managed at the local level.”
On the economy, the group said the rise in petroleum prices has driven up transport, food, and electricity costs, leaving households struggling and small businesses under pressure.
Citing reports that many Nigerians live below the poverty line, it warned that “A hungry man is an angry man” and prolonged hardship can lead to unrest. It urged government to prioritize welfare, cushion reforms for vulnerable citizens, and intervene in food security, healthcare, jobs, and social welfare, while tackling corruption and waste.
On democracy, Afenifere Diaspora USA reaffirmed that “democracy cannot flourish where institutions are weak” and called for respect for separation of powers, judicial independence, free expression, and credible elections. It also sought genuine national dialogue on restructuring, federalism, and equitable representation.
The organisation noted that Nigeria “stands at a critical crossroads” and the choices made today will decide if the country moves toward unity and prosperity or deeper instability. It called on all Nigerians to work for a secure, just, and prosperous nation.
