The Yoruba Community in the 19 Northern States and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja, has publicly distanced itself from an alleged mobilisation notice that has been circulating among youths in the North in support of President Bola Tinubu’s second-term ambition.
Official Denial and Warning
In a public notice signed by its President-General, Barrister Afiz Adigun, the group described the notice as unauthorized and warned members of the public against individuals falsely claiming to represent the organisation. The statement emphasised that any directives or mobilisation efforts not originating from the community's recognised political wing should be disregarded.
Background on Political Stance
According to the statement, the leadership of the Yoruba Community had already taken an official position regarding the 2027 presidential election. Following a congress attended by its elders and representatives, the community adopted President Bola Tinubu as its preferred candidate for a second term. This decision led to the establishment of a political platform known as the Yoruba Northern Network for Tinubu (YONNET), which is responsible for coordinating political activities and support campaigns across the 19 Northern states and the FCT.
Structure of YONNET
Barr. Adigun explained that the Deputy President of Yoruba Community 19 Northern States, Hon. James Olorunfemi, serves as the National Coordinator of YONNET. Additionally, presidents of Yoruba Community chapters in each northern state function as state coordinators under this structure. The group expressed concern over attempts by unauthorized persons to issue directives and mobilise Yoruba youths in the name of the community, particularly through notices that have been circulating.
The statement further called on members not to assemble in Kaduna or participate in activities not approved by its recognised political wing. It said, “We dissociate ourselves from any memo or directive calling for all Yoruba youths not to assemble in Kaduna or similar actions that did not originate from YONNET or this office.”
Call for Verification
The community urged members, APC stakeholders, and the general public to verify all political communications through its official channels to avoid being misled by misinformation and impersonators. It further advised individuals and organisations seeking to coordinate activities related to support for President Tinubu’s second-term bid in Northern Nigeria to liaise directly with YONNET or the National Secretariat.
Reaffirmation of Support
The statement reaffirmed the group’s support for President Tinubu and the All Progressives Congress (APC), while emphasizing the need for discipline, proper coordination, and adherence to established structures in all political engagements. The leadership also urged members to remain vigilant against unauthorized announcements circulating on social media and other platforms.
