Yoruba Leaders Back Tinubu for 2027, Demand Recognition for 2023 Support

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 on the President to recognise the contributions and sacrifices of Yoruba stakeholders who supported his emergence in 2023.

In a press statement signed by the National Leader of the forum, Barrister George Ogunjimi, and its Secretary-General, HRH Sooko Agoriesin Oladotun Hassan, the group said it had reviewed the country’s political situation and developments ahead of the 2027 elections and resolved to support Tinubu’s re-election bid.

The forum said it remained committed to the political unity, security, development and socio-economic advancement of the Yoruba people within a united Nigeria.

The YLF described Tinubu’s emergence in 2023 as historically significant, noting the “enormous mobilisation, political commitment and sacrifices” made by Nigerians, particularly Yoruba stakeholders, during the election.

It called for renewed unity, strategic organisation and constructive engagement among Yoruba leaders and stakeholders ahead of the 2027 electoral cycle.

The forum also said it would encourage legitimate democratic participation at the grassroots, including voter registration and collection of Permanent Voter Cards, while urging citizens to participate peacefully and responsibly in the electoral process.

The group disclosed that it would work with the Yoruba Council Worldwide to mobilise Yoruba traditional rulers and stakeholders for the second edition of the Yoruba Obas Conference scheduled for November 7, 2026, at the Main Auditorium, Ojaja Arena Resort, Ile-Ife.

According to the statement, the conference will provide an opportunity to host President Tinubu as Special Guest of Honour before the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Babatunde Ogunwusi CFR, Ojaja II, who will serve as Grand Royal Host alongside other traditional rulers in Yorubaland.

However, while reaffirming its support for Tinubu, the forum urged the President to address concerns among Yoruba leaders, grassroots organisers and supporters who it said had not received adequate recognition for their contributions to the 2023 election.

“Recognition should not merely be symbolic. It should translate into meaningful consultation, inclusion, development and opportunities for competent stakeholders to contribute to governance,” the forum said.

The YLF said it would seek a direct audience with Tinubu to present a comprehensive memorandum containing the concerns, expectations and proposals of Yoruba stakeholders.

It said the engagement would also seek to establish a stronger framework for consultation between the Presidency and Yoruba leadership.

“The Forum believes that the challenges facing Nigeria require a strong team, competent leadership and continuous engagement with responsible stakeholders across the country,” the statement said.

On security, the forum called for a coordinated and inclusive approach to community security across Yorubaland, stressing that existing Yoruba security initiatives should work together rather than compete.

It specifically advocated collaboration among the OPC, Iru Ekun Security Network/Hunters, Southwest Security Groups, vigilantes, Agbekoya, Atunluse and Eso Abo Oodua Agbaye, provided they operate within the law and coordinate with elected officials and recognised national security agencies.

“There must be no unnecessary rivalry or exclusion among legitimate stakeholders,” the forum said, adding that the collective objective should be to protect farms and agricultural communities, schools, highways and rural roads, markets, government infrastructure, businesses and communities across Yorubaland.

The YLF also urged 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 directly with the Presidency on issues affecting the region, including security, infrastructure, agriculture, economic development, employment and social welfare.

The forum said the Yoruba people had made significant contributions to Nigeria’s political and economic development and urged that their “legitimate expectations” receive appropriate attention within the framework of a united Nigeria.

The group further called on traditional rulers, political leaders, community leaders, youths, women and other stakeholders to remain united and avoid internal divisions and unnecessary rivalry.

“Our strength lies in our ability to speak with one voice while respecting legitimate differences of opinion,” the statement said.

The forum reaffirmed its commitment to peace, democratic values, good governance, development and the advancement of Yoruba interests within a united and prosperous Nigeria.