The pan-Yoruba socio-political organisation, Afenifere, has called on governors of the South-West to initiate a regional rail project connecting Lagos, Ogun, Oyo, Osun, Ondo, and Ekiti states, with a view to fostering economic integration and enhancing security across the region.
The group also suggested that the network could later extend to Kwara, Kogi, Edo, and Delta states in collaboration with their respective governments, emphasising the transformative potential of improved transport infrastructure for trade, mobility, and regional cohesion.
The position was outlined in a communiqué issued at the conclusion of Afenifere’s caucus and general meetings held at the residence of its National Leader, Chief Reuben Famuyide Fasoranti in Akure.
The statement was signed by the National Publicity Secretary, Comrade Jare Ajayi.
“Afenifere urges South-West governors to prioritise a rail infrastructure project that would connect the capitals of the six states. Such a corridor would also serve as an effective framework for security and economic integration,” the communiqué stated.
Beyond infrastructure, the organisation expressed serious concern over the rising insecurity in the South-West and other regions, warning that banditry and kidnapping have become almost daily occurrences.
“Afenifere is very concerned that banditry and kidnapping are now so rampant in the South-West that it is almost daily. This is unacceptable,” the communiqué added.
The group urged state governments and security agencies to take urgent and decisive action, while reiterating its demand for the empowerment of the regional security outfit, Amotekun, and calling on President Bola Tinubu and state governments to expedite the establishment of state police forces.
Afenifere also extended condolences and solidarity to the Oluabo of Ilu-Abo in Ondo State, Oba Olu Falae, the community, and the state government following a recent terrorist attack.
On the new federal tax regime, the organisation voiced reservations, noting that although it aims to ease the burden on low-income earners, the current N800,000 threshold could exclude many and worsen their plight.
It called for an upward review to broaden the tax relief’s impact.
The group commended the Federal Government’s ongoing road construction and rehabilitation projects, urging contractors to accelerate work and ensure quality, particularly on the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway, other strategic South-West highways, and the Ibadan-Ife-Akure Road, expressing hope for timely completion.
