The Yoruba community in Sokoto State has vowed to amicably resolve the lingering disagreement over the Sarikin Yorubawa title.
The group also pledged to maintain unity and peaceful coexistence among its members.
The outgoing President-General of the Yoruba Community Association, Chief James Olorunfemi, gave the assurance on Saturday during the association’s general election held to usher in new executives in Sokoto.
Chief Olorunfemi, who served two consecutive terms, described the controversy surrounding the traditional title as a “family affair” that would soon be settled through dialogue and mutual understanding.
“We don’t have any crisis among the Yorubas living in this state. We are one big family, and we will resolve any misunderstanding in a family way,” he said.
Olorunfemi stressed that the Sarikin Yorubawa stool remains a revered symbol of unity and cultural identity for the Yoruba in Sokoto, and thus urged members to shun division and sustain the legacy of peace the community is known for.
He praised members of the association for their active participation in the election, expressing confidence that the incoming executive would consolidate on the achievements of the outgoing leadership.
“The Yoruba community in Sokoto has remained peaceful and united. I’m proud of what we have built together,” he added.
Meanwhile, the out-going President-General Olorunfemi revealed that he was recently elected as the Deputy President-General of the Yoruba Community in the 19 Northern States and the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja, at a national meeting held in Makurdi, Benue State.
He also announced his appointment as the coordinator of the Yoruba Northern Network for Tinubu, a socio-cultural and political platform mobilising Yoruba residents across the North in support of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration and second-term bid.
According to him, the Yoruba Community in the 19 Northern states and the FCT, under the leadership of Barrister Afiz Adigun, has unanimously declared its backing for President Tinubu ahead of the next general elections.
“Our structure is solid, from wards to local governments and across states. We are united in purpose and committed to supporting President Tinubu for a second term of office,” Olorunfemi stated.
He maintained that every Yoruba resident in the North is being encouraged to obtain their Permanent Voter Cards and register with the All Progressives Congress as part of the group’s mobilisation strategy.
“It is our mandate to participate actively in governance and ensure our community continues to have a voice in national development,” Olorunfemi pointed out.
