A member of the House of Representatives under the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Hon. Leke Joseph Abejide, has called on Yoruba leaders in the northern region to rally behind President Bola Tinubu’s second-term bid, emphasizing the need for continuity in governance and development.
Speaking at the 10th-anniversary celebration of the Association of Yoruba Traditional Leaders and Obas in the Northern States and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), where a new Executive Committee was inaugurated, Abejide who also serves as Chairman of the House Committee on Customs and Excise stressed the importance of unity among Yorubas in the North.
Encouraging the leaders to set aside political divisions, he stated:
“I will support you, but only if we work together to support the President. Many of you are excelling in your fields and earning respect across communities. That influence must be channelled appropriately.”
He credited his own political success to the strong backing of his constituents and highlighted an upcoming 57.2-kilometer road project as a testament to what collective support can achieve.
“If we work together, this association will experience real transformation,” he added.
As the Asiwaju of Yorubas in Kano, Abejide emphasized the strategic importance of Yoruba unity:
“Yorubas form a significant part of Nigeria’s population. If we are removed from the equation, the gap will be deeply felt. That’s why we must remain united”.
Abejide also announced plans for a state-of-the-art Yoruba palace in Kano, describing it as more than just a building but a symbol of Yoruba influence and welfare in the North.
“When Yoruba people speak with one voice, we make a real impact. Our unity can determine election outcomes, and we have a lot to contribute to Nigeria’s progress,” he noted.
Muritala Adeleke, the newly appointed Chairman of the Association and the Serikinwa Yoruba of Funtua, Katsina State, pledged to promote unity and socioeconomic programs for the Yoruba community.
He urged Yoruba residents in the North to maintain strong ties with their host communities:
“My vision is simple: unite all Yorubas in the North and ensure peaceful coexistence with our hosts. We are here to live, work, and build strong relationships based on mutual respect”.
Emphasizing peaceful history, he added:
“Our people have always been peaceful. There is no history of conflicts between Yorubas and our host communities. We have built a solid foundation of trust and cooperation”.
On politics, Adeleke stated that while individuals may have different affiliations, Tinubu’s success in his first term would naturally encourage support for his re-election in 2027.
“If his first term brings progress and unity to Nigeria, then supporting his re-election will come naturally. We pray for his success and a stronger, more united country,” he said.
The Royal Father of the Day, Oba Abdul Rasheed Ayotunde Olabomi, the Aragbiji of Iragbiji Land, Osun State, urged northern Yoruba leaders to uphold democratic values and remain connected to their roots.
Guest Speaker Prof. Ranti Ojo encouraged Yoruba traditional rulers to represent the values of their homeland effectively, while Oba Jimoh Alao Yusuf, Oba Yoruba of Gombe, emphasized the need for law-abiding citizenship, particularly as the 2027 elections approach.
Hajia Idayat Bolanle, the Iyalaje Yoruba of Kano, called for greater inclusivity, urging Yoruba leaders to create more opportunities for women’s participation in community development.
“Women must be given space to be heard and contribute. Inclusivity goes beyond politics; it extends to empowerment programs that need full cooperation for effective implementation,” she stated.
The event underscored the growing political and cultural mobilization of the Yoruba community in northern Nigeria as the 2027 elections draw closer.
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