By Mercy Aikoye
Honourable Leke Joseph Abejide, the Asiwaju Yoruba in Kano State and member representing Yagba East/Yagba West/Mopa-muro Federal Constituency of Kogi State in the House of Representatives, has called on Yoruba people living in the North to rally behind President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration.
Abejide made this call while speaking to journalists at the 10th-anniversary celebration and election of new executives of the “Association of Yoruba Traditional Leaders/Obas Northern States and FCT” in Abuja. He described the gathering as unique, showcasing the culture, value, and importance of the Yoruba race in Nigeria.
The Yoruba people, according to Abejide, are a foremost tribe that excels anywhere they find themselves. He cited his personal experience, living in Kano for 32 years and rising from obscurity to prominence. Abejide also highlighted the significant Yoruba population in Kano State, estimating over 5 million people, and their potential influence on the state’s governance.
Abejide congratulated the association on its 10th anniversary and pledged his support, conditional on their backing for President Tinubu. He acknowledged the accomplishments of Yoruba leaders in various fields, emphasizing their command of respect beyond their community.
The Honourable member urged the Yoruba people to unite and support President Tinubu’s policies and programs, promising that they would reap the dividends of democracy. Abejide cited his own experience, where he had brought development projects to his constituency, thanks to his connection with the President.
Abejide emphasized the importance of Yoruba unity, citing their significant population in Northern states, including Plateau, Funtua, Katsina, Gombe, and Kaduna. He envisioned a future gathering of Yoruba people from the 19 Northern states and the FCT, where they would speak with one voice and assert their influence.
The Asiwaju Yoruba in Kano State also highlighted the peaceful nature of Yoruba people, their commitment to hard work, and their success in various endeavors. He attributed his own success in Kano to his character and attitude, which had earned him respect and enabled him to uplift others.
Abejide announced plans to build an ultra-modern palace for the Yoruba in Kano, a project that would promote Yoruba culture and identity in the region. He emphasized that this initiative was not politically motivated but rather a celebration of Yoruba heritage.
In conclusion, Honourable Leke Joseph Abejide’s call to action emphasizes the importance of Yoruba unity and support for President Tinubu’s administration. By rallying behind the President, Abejide believes that the Yoruba people can reap the benefits of democracy and promote their cultural identity.
