A former Secretary-General of the pan-Yoruba socio-political group, Afenifere, and prominent member of the National Democratic Coalition (NADECO), Chief Ayo Opadokun, has alleged that Nigeria’s worsening insecurity is not coincidental but the outcome of a long-standing, carefully planned plot by internal and external forces.
Speaking on Sunday, December 21, during his installation as Grand Patron of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Offa Local Government Area, Kwara State, Opadokun said the persistent attacks by bandits and insurgents across the country were being sponsored by powerful interests determined to destabilise Nigeria.
According to him, some individuals and groups had taken “far-reaching decisions” against the country long before now, including actors who are opposed to the current administration.
Opadokun warned that Nigeria had reached a dangerous stage where non-state actors now possess weapons more advanced than those available to the nation’s conventional security forces, describing the situation as deeply alarming.
Government Ignored Early Security Warnings
The elder statesman faulted successive governments for allegedly ignoring early warnings about the looming security crisis.
He recalled attending a four-day meeting in August 2022 at the Nicon Hilton, Abuja, where he claimed certain Nigerian elements and Sahel-region actors discussed plans to overrun the country.
According to him, recent developments validate those warnings, stressing that Nigeria’s security challenges are the result of deliberate planning rather than chance.
Opadokun urged the Federal Government to intensify its response to insecurity, insisting that there should be no tolerance for bandits or their sponsors.
Tinubu Commended for Economic and Tax Reforms
Despite his concerns, Opadokun praised President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for implementing what he described as bold and far-reaching economic reforms, particularly in taxation.
He noted that the new tax framework represents a step toward fiscal federalism and would ease the burden on low-income earners, many of whom may no longer be required to pay taxes due to insufficient earnings.
According to him, the reforms would also significantly affect major institutions, including banks, which he accused of exploiting Nigerians.
“The banks have been ripping us off,” Opadokun said, adding that while President Tinubu has made commendable progress, the administration has yet to fully achieve the level of change Nigerians desire.
Call for True Constitutional Governance
Reaffirming NADECO’s long-standing position, Opadokun said the group remains committed to restoring true constitutional governance in Nigeria.
He argued that the current federal structure was imposed by military rulers and does not reflect a genuinely home-grown constitution agreed upon by Nigerians.
Nigeria at a Defining Moment
Reflecting on the nation’s condition as of December 2025, Opadokun described Nigeria as standing at a critical crossroads.
While acknowledging signs of improvement in some economic indicators, he warned that such gains would be meaningless unless they translated into better living conditions for ordinary citizens.
He admitted that recent reforms have imposed harsh realities on Nigerians, including rising inflation, increased cost of living, declining purchasing power, and mounting pressure on small businesses and fixed-income earners.
According to him, leadership during challenging times must balance decisiveness with empathy, transparency, and effective communication.
Security Beyond Military Force
On national cohesion and security, Opadokun cautioned that military force alone would not guarantee stability.
He emphasised that lasting peace requires justice, inclusion, fairness, and sustained dialogue among Nigeria’s diverse population.
The Afenifere chieftain concluded by urging Nigerians to exercise patience, engage in constructive criticism, and hold leaders accountable, stressing that unity and commitment to the common good are essential for Nigeria to emerge stronger from its current challenges.