The Yoruba Leaders Forum (YLF) has declared its support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s bid for a second term in the 2027 presidential election, while calling for greater recognition of stakeholders who contributed to his emergence in 2023.
The forum, an umbrella body of Yoruba leaders and stakeholders, made the position known after reviewing the country’s political situation and developments ahead of the 2027 elections.
In a statement signed by its National Leader, Barrister George Ogunjimi, and Secretary-General, HRH Sooko Agoriesin Oladotun Hassan, the group said its position followed extensive consultations among its members and other stakeholders.
The forum said the political mobilisation and sacrifices made by Nigerians, particularly Yoruba stakeholders, during the 2023 election should not be overlooked.
It therefore urged President Tinubu to address concerns among grassroots organisers, political leaders and loyal supporters who, according to the group, believe their contributions have not received adequate recognition through appointments, developmental projects, consultation and inclusion in government.
The YLF said recognition should go beyond symbolic gestures, insisting that it should translate into meaningful consultation, development and opportunities for competent stakeholders to contribute to governance.
The group also disclosed plans to seek a direct audience with President Tinubu, where it intends to present a comprehensive memorandum containing the concerns, expectations and proposals of Yoruba stakeholders.
It said the proposed engagement would also seek to establish a structured channel of communication between the Presidency and Yoruba leadership on issues affecting the region.
On security, the forum called for a coordinated and inclusive security framework across Yorubaland, urging existing community security initiatives to work together rather than operate in rivalry or isolation.
It listed the Oodua Peoples Congress, Iru Ekun Security Network/Hunters, Southwest Security Groups, vigilantes, Agbekoya, Atunluse and Eso Abo Oodua Agbaye among the initiatives that could collaborate within the law and in coordination with elected officials and recognised national security agencies.
According to the forum, such collaboration should focus on protecting farms and agricultural communities, schools, highways and rural roads, markets, government infrastructure, businesses and other economic assets.
The YLF also urged President Tinubu to continue strengthening his administration with competent, experienced and capable Nigerians.
It called for a structured consultation mechanism that would enable Yoruba leaders to engage the Presidency on security, infrastructure, agriculture, economic development, employment and social welfare.
Meanwhile, the forum said it would work with the Yoruba Council Worldwide to mobilise Yoruba traditional rulers and other stakeholders for the second edition of the Yoruba Obas Conference scheduled for November 7, 2026, at Ojaja Arena Resort, Ile-Ife.
The event, according to the group, is expected to provide an opportunity to host President Tinubu as Special Guest of Honour, with the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Babatunde Ogunwusi, CFR, serving as Grand Royal Host alongside traditional rulers from across Yorubaland.
The forum further called on traditional rulers, political and community leaders, youths, women and other stakeholders to maintain unity and avoid internal divisions.
It urged eligible citizens to participate actively and peacefully in the democratic process, including voter registration and the collection of Permanent Voter Cards.
The YLF reaffirmed its commitment to peace, democratic values, good governance and the advancement of Yoruba interests within a united and prosperous Nigeria.
