The Yoruba Youth Council (YYC) has issued a strong statement condemning and opposing a planned ceremony by the Alaafin of Oyo to confer a high-ranking traditional title on a former northern governor linked to issues of banditry.
Council Raises Alarm Over Title Conferment
In a statement released on Sunday, December 21, 2025, the foremost organization representing Yoruba youth interests voiced its firm rejection. The council is alarmed by the intention of the Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Abimbola Akeem Owoade I, to bestow the prestigious title of Obaloyin of Yorubaland on Senator Abdulaziz Yari Abubakar.
Senator Yari is the former governor of Zamfara State and currently represents Zamfara West in the Senate, where he chairs the Committee on Water Resources.
Why the Youth Council is Opposed
The President of the YYC, Dr. Adebayo Ogunleye, described the Alaafin's decision as a significant misstep. He warned that it risks eroding the core Yoruba values of integrity, moral uprightness, and communal responsibility.
The council's opposition is rooted in the security record of Zamfara State during Senator Yari's tenure as governor from 2011 to 2019. The YYC highlighted that this period saw a severe escalation in banditry and insecurity in the state.
According to the council, the consequences were devastating:
- Thousands of lives were lost.
- There was widespread displacement of communities.
- Many people lived in constant fear.
Dr. Ogunleye emphasized that Yorubaland has a tradition of honouring individuals who embody the omoluabi spirit—characterized by excellence, accountability, and the protection of life and property. He argued that conferring a title like Obaloyin, which signifies guardianship and military command, on someone with such a controversial record sends a dangerous message to the youth and society at large.
Broader Context of Chieftaincy Installations
This development occurs amidst other notable chieftaincy events in Yorubaland. The same invitation circulating on social media indicates that the Alaafin also plans to install Seyi Tinubu, son of President Bola Tinubu, as the Okanlomo of Yorubaland.
This comes just two weeks after the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, conferred the title of Okanlomo of Oodua on Ibadan businessman Prince Dotun Sanusi.
In related news, Senator Yari recently made headlines for criticizing Nigerians who called on former US President Donald Trump to help tackle banditry. Yari insisted that only Nigerians can resolve the nation's internal security challenges.
The YYC's statement represents a significant cultural and political intervention, stressing that traditional honours must align with demonstrated leadership and a commitment to the safety and welfare of the people.
