A socio-cultural advocacy group, Think Yoruba First Organisation Worldwide has rejected assertions regarding the historical and cultural identity of Yoruba communities in Kwara and Kogi States, as well as interpretations of alleged political motivations linked to the presidency.

This was contained in a statement signed by the general secretary of the group, Dr. Bukola Adeniji reacting to an article authored by Professor Farooq Kperogi, titled “Tinubu’s Yoruba Agenda Risks Deep Rupture in Kwara,” which the group said presented a one-sided narrative capable of distorting public understanding of the socio-political realities in the region.

The organisation maintained that although Kwara State is geographically located within Nigeria’s North Central zone, Yoruba-speaking communities in parts of Kwara and Kogi States have deep historical roots, with identity shaped by language, culture, and long-standing settlement patterns.

It argued that the existence of traditional institutions such as the emirate system does not negate the cultural identity of indigenous Yoruba communities, noting that they have coexisted peacefully with other ethnic groups over time.

According to the group, the political aspirations of Yoruba communities in the region should not be misconstrued as divisive, stressing that the right to seek representation within a democratic system remains fundamental and inalienable.

“The aspiration of any group to pursue fair representation and leadership within a democratic framework should not be misinterpreted as a threat to unity or stability,” the statement said.

Think Yoruba First also dismissed suggestions that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu intends to impose political leadership in Kwara and Kogi States, describing such claims as speculative and lacking factual basis.
The group further criticised attempts to question or deny the Yoruba identity of several communities in Kwara, including Ilorin, Shao, Jebba, Afon, Elemere, and Eiyekorin, insisting that such positions disregard established historical and cultural realities.

It cautioned against the politicisation of ethnic identity in public discourse, warning that such narratives risk deepening unnecessary tensions and diverting attention from pressing socio-economic and security challenges in the region.

The organisation urged commentators and public intellectuals to exercise restraint, verify historical claims, and engage sensitive national issues with balance and intellectual honesty.

It added that Nigeria’s strength lies in its diversity, calling for mutual respect, inclusion, and responsible engagement in national discourse.

“We urge commentators and public intellectuals to engage responsibly, rely on verifiable facts, and approach sensitive national issues with balance and intellectual honesty, especially when addressing the complex socio-political dynamics of Kwara and Kogi States.”