Yoruba Council Denounces Impostor, Backs National Youth Conference

The Yoruba Council Worldwide (YCW), the apex body representing Yoruba people globally, has denounced recent claims attributed to an alleged impostor, Mr. Eric Oluwole.

The organization described Oluwole’s statements, published on December 8, 2024, as misleading and aimed at creating confusion.

In a statement signed by YCW’s national publicity secretary, Bashorun Isaac Aderemi Ajibola, the council clarified that it remains the only legally recognised body for Yoruba youth, registered with the Corporate Affairs Commission.

The group condemned Mr. Oluwole for parading himself as a leader of fictitious organizations, including the so-called “Yoruba Youth Council.” YCW clarified that it is the only legally recognized Yoruba youth organization, led by Aare Oladotun Hassan Esq., and called on authorities to investigate Oluwole’s activities.

The controversy stems from remarks suggesting dissatisfaction among Nigerian youths with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration. YCW dismissed these claims, emphasizing that Tinubu’s government has appointed more youths to key positions than any previous administration, including ministerial roles and director-general appointments.

The Yoruba Council also reaffirmed its support for the upcoming National Youth Conference, scheduled for February 2025. According to YCW, the conference provides a vital platform for addressing critical national issues such as constitutional reform, education, and economic development.

“We wholeheartedly support the Tinubu administration and the Honorable Minister for Youth Development, Comrade Ayodele Olawande, for their commendable efforts to engage Nigerian youths in governance and policymaking,” the statement read.

As part of its contributions to the conference, YCW has outlined key proposals, including the creation of a new constitution, the establishment of a National Youth Trust Fund, and increased budget allocations for youth and education. The council also advocates for the recognition of ethnic nationalities in Nigeria’s constitution and the implementation of technology-driven reforms, such as diaspora voting and a centralized national data system.

The YCW emphasised that the National Youth Conference would serve as an opportunity to foster unity and advance the country’s development. It also called for the consideration and implementation of recommendations from the 2014 National Conference convened under former President Goodluck Jonathan.