The Yoruba Welfare Group (YWG) has tackled Yoruba nation agitator, Sunday Igboho over his recent calls for secession, describing such agitations as baseless and unfounded.
National President of the Yoruba Welfare Group (YWG), Abdulhakeem Adegoke Alawuje, in a statement on Friday, it
dismissed Igboho’s agitation, saying it did not reflect the collective aspirations of the Yoruba people.
According to the statement, “Sunday Igboho’s actions stem from a personal agenda, not the broader interests of Yoruba land. The Yoruba Welfare Group is dedicated to promoting unity and fostering stronger relationships between Yoruba people and other ethnic groups in Nigeria.
“We therefore urge citizens to support President Tinubu’s policies, which we believe are aimed at national progress and cohesion, not division.
“We want to caution political leaders against exploiting ethnic sentiments for personal or political gain, and we urge Nigerians across all regions to uphold equality and fairness in governance.
While recognizing the importance of free speech, he stressed that divisive rhetoric capable of eroding trust and unity within Nigeria’s democratic framework must be firmly addressed by regional leaders.
“Nigeria’s unity is greater than any argument for separation, we therefore implore individuals like Sunday Igboho with similar ideologies to engage in constructive dialogue to emphasis the importance of a united Nigeria.
“Yoruba Welfare Group is commited to protecting the welfare of Yoruba people and any other ethnic groups living within Yoruba regions, just as we want to encourage socio-cultural organizations nationwide to instil values of love, peace, and unity in the younger generation, many of whom lack a deep understanding of Nigeria’s historical struggles and achievements.
“The importance of maintaining a cordial relationship between the South and North can not be overstated, particularly between the Southwest and Northern regions. It’s crucial to recognize that the political collaboration that led to President Muhammad Buhari’s victory in 2015 was also instrumental in President Tinubu’s win in 2023.
“This collaboration is a testament to the power of unity and cooperation between regions. It’s essential to preserve this tolerance and create space for dialogue to ensure peace and progress continue. By doing so, we can build on the successes of the past and work towards a brighter future for all Nigerians.
“Yoruba Welfare Group has been actively promoting unity and peace across Nigeria, transcending religious, linguistic, and ethnic divides. Their efforts demonstrate the importance of organizations and individuals working together to foster a sense of national unity and cooperation.
“We want to advise against stoking ethnic or religious tensions because such actions could lead to uncontrollable conflicts. And the pursuit of separation is a misguided attempt to cut off the head to cure a headache.
“We therefore call on Nigerians to embrace collective efforts to address the country’s challenges. Nigeria must remain united to secure a better future for all its citizens”.
