The Conscience of Yoruba Nation, an affiliate of Afenifere, has vowed to resist any attempts to destabilize the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. The group condemned recent acts, including the hoisting of a foreign flag in Northern Nigeria, which it views as an invitation to foreign intervention and a threat to the country’s stability.
In a statement issued on Sunday and signed by the group’s convener, Abagun Kole Omololu, the organization expressed strong disapproval of efforts to undermine the democratically elected government. Omololu emphasized that the Yoruba people will not accept or support any attempt to disrupt the administration of President Tinubu.
The statement read: “The call for military intervention and the hoisting of a foreign flag by some elements in the North confirms our fears that rogue political actors intended to exploit the protests to destabilize the government and incite internal conflicts. Fortunately, these plans failed.
“Throughout history, the Yoruba have never supported rebellion against a constitutional regime, and we will not condone such actions. Our people have made significant sacrifices for the federation, including enduring the unjust imprisonment of Chief Obafemi Awolowo, the murder of Chief S.L. Akintola, the annulment of Chief M.K.O. Abiola’s presidential mandate, and numerous other tragedies.
“Despite these provocations, including the recent murder of Mrs. Okufunke Olakunrin by Fulani marauders, we have always opposed violent overthrows of democratically elected governments. We will continue to resist such efforts.”
The group further condemned the act of hoisting a foreign flag, labeling it as an attempt to invite foreign powers to interfere with Nigeria’s sovereignty. It also expressed concern over secession threats from certain Northern regions and acknowledged ongoing investigations by security agencies.
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“While the Yoruba have no objections to any part of Nigeria seeking secession or desiring military rule, we advise that such aspirations should be pursued through legal means if ever they choose to opt out of Nigeria. The Yoruba will decide our own governance in our independent nation if that need arises.
“We commend the Nigerian youth for their peaceful expression of grievances and appreciate the government’s respect for the constitutional right to assemble and associate freely. President Tinubu’s adherence to democratic principles is commendable.
“We also recognize the professional conduct of security agencies during the protests, including their response to allegations of excessive force and compensation for victims. We urge continued investigations into all acts of violence to ensure justice.
“Our condolences go out to the families who lost loved ones and properties during the violence. We pray for comfort and restoration for those affected.
“At the outset, the Conscience of Yoruba Nation and Afenifere called for restraint, believing that public grievances were adequately expressed. We urged protest organizers to call off the demonstrations to prevent exploitation by rogue actors.”