A Yoruba socio-cultural body has strongly rejected a recent declaration made in Washington, D.C., distancing itself from any form of alliance with the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and warning against rising ethnic tensions and insecurity across Nigeria.
In a statement issued by its president, Aare Oladotun Hassan, the group said it unequivocally condemned the March 25, 2026 declaration by the Coalition for the De-Amalgamation and Security (CODES), describing it as a “dangerous and provocative agenda” capable of triggering unrest and instability in the country.
The group noted that its position followed consultations, including a virtual meeting involving elder statesman Banji Akintoye, who reportedly denied full knowledge of the declaration but acknowledged prior calls for collaboration from IPOB. The organisation, however, said it frowned at what it described as unilateral actions taken without broad consultation among Yoruba stakeholders.
It also rejected any association with IPOB, a group linked to separatist agitations in the South-East and led by Nnamdi Kanu. The statement accused IPOB of past acts of violence and insisted that any discussions about Nigeria’s future or restructuring must involve “responsible and widely accepted stakeholders across all regions.”
The group further called on international actors, including the United States and the United Kingdom, to disregard the Washington declaration, insisting it does not represent the position of the Yoruba people.
On rising ethnic tensions, the organisation condemned what it described as provocative rhetoric on social media targeting Yoruba leaders, including Obafemi Awolowo and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. It warned that such statements could threaten peaceful coexistence, particularly in Lagos and other parts of the South-West.
Reaffirming its stance on territorial identity, the group maintained that Lagos remains part of the South-West and rejected claims portraying the state as a “no man’s land.” It also urged state governments in the region to regulate traditional institutions and land ownership practices, while cautioning against what it described as “unlawful assertions of authority” by non-indigenous groups.
The statement further raised alarm over worsening security challenges in parts of the South-West and North-Central regions, citing attacks, kidnappings, and alleged threats linked to armed groups. It called for the strengthening of local security outfits and renewed advocacy for the establishment of state police.
The organisation also urged security agencies, including the police and the Department of State Services (DSS), to investigate reported incidents of religious and ethnic violence, particularly in Kwara State.
Looking ahead to the 2027 general elections, the group warned of rising political and security risks, calling on the Office of the National Security Adviser to heighten vigilance and ensure adequate protection of lives and property.
Despite the concerns raised, the body expressed support for the administration of President Tinubu, endorsing his re-election bid in 2027. It also called for constitutional reforms, including the creation of additional states and increased representation for women and youths in governance.
The statement concluded with goodwill messages to President Tinubu on his 74th birthday, commending his leadership and wishing him continued success in office.
