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Insecurity: Yoruba Council of Elders Writes United Nations, Request Quick Intervention

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5 years ago

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GENOCIDE ON THE HORIZON

To:

His Excellence
Mr António Guterres (GCC GCL)
Secretary General,
United Nation

To:

United Nations Office on Genocide Prevention and the Responsibility to Protect
New York, USA

GENOCIDE ON THE HORIZON. CALL FOR URGENT UNITED NATION INTERVENTION IN NIGERIA

The Yoruba Council of Elders Europe and America is using this medium to inform the  United Nations of state of affairs in the Federal Republic of Nigeria and the need to intervene urgently to save a situation of potential genocide. Intelligence available points at genocide about to happen on a scale never known before, executed by armed people with logistics back up and positioned strategically around the country.

Urgent and decisive action of the United Nation Secretariat, the United Nations Assembly, and United Nations Office on Genocide Prevention and the Responsibility to Protect is required to save lives of millions of Nigerians.

Indeed urgent, decisive and far reaching actions by the United Nations are required to prevent what even the world bodies are aware would destabilise the entire region on a scale never known before.

*SOME BACKGROUND*

Several cases of major assaults and onslaughts against Yorubas have been reported to the  knowledge of Yoruba Council of Elders Europe and America, in which victims narrated their experiences and that of their families in the hands of Fulani herdsmen. A popular example is the case of Former Secretary to the Government of the Federation in Nigeria, Chief Olu Falae who suffered financial loss on his invaded farm, was kidnapped with ransome demanded, and with his worker killed following repeated and incessant invasion of his farm by Fulani Herdsmen.

In March 2018, the Former Minister of Defence in Nigeria, General Theophilus Danjuma (rtd) specifically stated that communities attacked by herdsmen in the country need to rise up to defend themselves. He emphasised that it would be suicidal for the people to continue to rely on the armed forces to defend them, and in his words
“They (government security forces) collude with the armed bandits that kill people, kill Nigerians; they facilitate their movement; they cover them”.

Former Head of State Chief Olusegun Obasanjo recently in his public speech itemised ongoing agenda of Fulanisation and Islamisation of Nigeria.

The British House of Commons document of 27 November 2018 titled ‘Armed violence against farming communities in Nigeria’ asserted Mrs Hamsatu Allamin, founder of Maiduguri Allamin Foundation for Peace, claims that members of Boko Haram are ready to drop their weapons, but government stakeholders benefiting from the insurgency are deliberately prolonging the terrorism.

Further the document established that a major cause of this violence is the competition between mainly Muslim pastoralists and largely Christian farmers over land and natural resources (Commons Debate packs CDP-2018-0257).

Same year, Mr Femi Adesina, the Spokesperson for the Presidency, Federal Republic of Nigeria issued a chilling warning in a statement on African Independent Television, referring to Nigerians with ancestral attachment to their land that they can only have ancestral attachment when they are alive.

In a report by Amnesty International titled

Nigeria: The harvest of death-Three years of
bloody clashes between farmers and herders in Nigeria’ (December 2018) page 6 of the document summarised as follows

‘This report documents the violent clashes between members of farmer communities and members of herder communities in parts of Nigeria, particularly in the northern parts of the country, over access to
resources: water, land and pasture. It also documents the failure of the Nigerian government in fulfilling its constitutional responsibility of protection of lives and property by refusing to investigate, arrest and
prosecute perpetrators of attacks. The report shows how government’s inaction fuels impunity, resulting in attacks and reprisal attacks, with at least 3,641 people killed between January 2016 and October 2018, 57 percent of them in 2018 alone’.

Page 7 of the document specified and asserted further as follow
‘Amnesty International found evidence showing that security forces received information about impending
attacks and in some cases, *came in contact with attackers but did nothing to stop or prevent the attacks* .

Amnesty International documented at least seven cases where security forces were aware of attacks but
did nothing’.

*ESCALATION*

The actions of the goverment of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, still in the same pattern contained in various reports and evidences, continue to fuel a situation where those attacking innocent citizens in effect

– Enjoy advantage of resources and logistics (land, money, radio frequency/communication equipment) from government

– Benefit from inaction of authorities e.g no single person has been prosecuted despite the scale of the killings in the North-Central

– Benefit from wrong rules designed by authorities which makes the innocent citizens additionally weak and vulnerable.

Notably, it was reported in the Nigerian media that the Federal Government of Nigeria planned to give the Miyetti Allah N100 billion naira. While the government denied, the Miyetti Allah later owned up, claiming it had been approved by former President Goodluck Jonathan. It is believed that such resourcing of the herdsmen was a boost to their acquisition of arms and other materials needed for the agenda of conquering the nation. It is of significance that similar payout was not made to the farmers.

In further boost to the campaign of the Fulani herdsmen, and a step which further equip them logistically, including in the coordination of their activities the Federal Goverment of Nigeria announced in May 2019 that it has acquired an amplitude modulation (AM) radio broadcast licence to reach herdsmen across the country, a radio station which would operate on the frequency of 720KHz and would air in Fulfude, a language spoken mainly by the Fulani tribe.

In a dramatic twist that has left Nigerians bewildered, President Muhammadu Buhari announced he has signed an Executive Order, operative from 1 June 2019 withdrawing from Nigerians the licence of all legally issued firearms. This final act has left about 200 million Nigerians under existential threat. The final act that paves way for genocide to commence!

*OUR POSITION*

The Yoruba people of South West Nigeria are aware of the attraction that our land generates. This is partly due to the wealth of fertile land that support agriculture, the natural resources, including the access to seaport. For example, so much riches lie in our waters. Forth-nine of the 195 (approximately 25%) countries of the world are landlocked, yet 8 of the 15 (53%) lowest-ranking countries in the World Human Development Index are landlocked countries. It is a known fact that these countries face structural challenges, face lengthy wait and higher cost of exportation and importation, depend on the peace, commerce and political goodwill of neighbouring countries for passage of goods and suffer from significantly reduced trade. The gross domestic product of these countries is 40% lower compared to their maritime neighbours. The South West Nigeria is well situated to enjoy all the benefit of a coastal country. Other groups in Nigeria have also expressed concerns and frustration on how the actions of the Federal Goverment of Nigeria has made them vulnerable in the hands of those who target their land and other resources.

The declaration of withdrawal of licenced firearms by Executive order of President Muhammadu Buhari  (himself a Fulani man) has been described by Nigerians as the final call by the Fulanisation Lords to the population targeted for their lands and resources to surrender all legally acquired arms and would be followed by suppression and putting into extinction of millions of Yorubas and other Nigerians. The stakes can not be higher!

CHAPTER VII, Article 51 of the UN Charter, defines that an armed attacks warrants the exercise of right to self-defence. The people of Yoruba land evidently are currently facing armed attacks, by Fulanis, by Boko Haram and with evidence of the backing of people in goverment. It is therefore a breach of fundamental human right that this population at this time would be asked to surrender legally owned arms that would have offered them even the minimum protection.

Nigerians at this present moment are facing IMMINENT DANGER. This state of imminent danger resulted hugely from the actions and inactions of the goverment of Federal Republic of Nigeria that has continued to create atmosphere that equip and embolden bandits while threatening, weakening and disarming innocent citizens.

*THE EXECUTIVE ORDER OF PRESIDENT MUHAMMADU BUHARI IS A BREACH OF RIGHT OF THE PEOPLE, A THREAT TO THEIR EXISTENCE AND SURVIVAL.*

The Executive order is in breach of

– CHAPTER VII, Article 51 of the UN Charter,

– Section 33 of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria which provides for the right to life.

– Section 258 of the Criminal Code that operates in the Southern part of Nigeria establishing right to self defence and the defence of one’s property.

– Sections 59-60 of the Penal Code that operates in the Northern Nigeria, right to self defence and the defence of one’s property.

An Act by the legislature supercedes any executive order/orders, which is/are just emergency stop-gap directives before proper laws are debated and enacted.

However, while the lower house (House of Representatives of Federal Republic of Nigeria) voted against the executive order on 30 May 2019, the upper house (the Senates of Federal Republic of Nigeria) have not. Failure of the legislature to act may be due current situation in which legislators are lobbying for Speakership and similar offices and thereby currently seeking favour from the executives, particularly President Muhammadu Buhari.

The judiciary have a duty of care here as well, to nullify the Executive order. This again is yet to happen and the current political climate is not encouraging.

Yoruba Council of Elders Europe and America continue to work with all Royal fathers in Nigeria, and all groups representing sections of the country to move to protect lives and properties of 200 million Nigerians.

We call on the United Nation to intervene to prevent the imminent genocide.

The right to life and self defence is non-negotiable, and we call on the United Nation to stand and defend the principles upon which it is founded

Elder Prince Ademola Adekunle  (PhD, LLM)

Coordinating Secretary – Yoruba Council of Elders Europe and America_

Elder Michael Olawale Shadare
Chairman, Yoruba Council of Elders Europe and America

CC: For information and actions as appropriate*

The Federal Executive Council, Federal Republic of Nigeria.

Speaker,  House of Assembly, Nigeria.

Speaker,  House of Representatives, Nigeria.

Executive Governor, Osun State, Nigeria

Executive Governor,  Oyo State, Nigeria

Executive Governor, Lagos State, Nigeria.

Executive Governor,  Ondo State, Nigeria

Executive Governor,  Ogun State, Nigeria

Executive Governor,  Ekiti State, Nigeria

Executive Governor,  Kwara State, Nigeria

Speaker,  House of Assembly, Osun State, Nigeria

Speaker,  House of Assembly,  Oyo State, Nigeria

Speaker,  House of Assembly, Lagos State, Nigeria.

Speaker,  House of Assembly, Ondo State, Nigeria

Speaker,  House of Assembly,  Ogun State, Nigeria

Speaker,  House of Assembly, Ekiti State, Nigeria

Speaker,  House of Assembly,  Kwara State, Nigeria

The Chairman, Obas Council, Osun State, Nigeria

The Chairman, Obas Council, Oyo State, Nigeria

The Chairman, Obas Council, Lagos State, Nigeria.

The Chairman, Obas Council, Ondo State, Nigeria

The Chairman, Obas Council, Ogun State, Nigeria

The Chairman, Obas Council, Ekiti State, Nigeria

The Chairman, Obas Council, Kwara State, Nigeria

Office of Aare Ona Kankanfo of Yoruba land, Iba Gani Adams

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Attempted Coup: DSS Arraigns Five for Alleged Refusal to Reveal Timipre Sylva’s Hiding Place

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1 day ago

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July 2, 2026

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The Department of State Services (DSS) at the Federal High Court in Abuja, arraigned five associates of former Minister of Petroleum Resources, Timipre Sylva.

They are accused of concealing information regarding the whereabouts of their principal, who is alleged to be a financier of an aborted coup attempt against President Bola Tinubu.

Sylva, a former Governor of Bayelsa State, has been declared wanted by the Federal government, and his identified properties have been marked for forfeiture following his indictment as the sponsor and mastermind of the alleged coup plot.

The five associates are Reuben Ayuba, Musa Mohammed, Friday Paul, Paganengigha Anagaha, and Ayebaifife Suobite. They were arraigned on Wednesday before Justice Peter Lifu.

A two-count charge filed against them indicates that the accused became accessories after the fact of felony on April 28, 2026, by concealing the whereabouts of Timipre Sylva, who is classified as a fugitive. The alleged offense is contrary to Section 519 of the Criminal Code Act Law of the Federation of Nigeria, 2004.

Additionally, the DSS has accused them of conspiracy to commit a felony, specifically for concealing the whereabouts of Timipre Sylva, also a fugitive, in violation of Section 516 of the Criminal Code, LFN 2004.

All the accused persons pleaded not guilty to the charges when they were read to them.

DSS lawyer, Emmanuel Orubor, requested that the judge schedule a date for the DSS to commence their trial by calling witnesses to testify against the defendants.

In response, Sunusi Musa (SAN), who represented Reuben Ayuba and Paganengigha Anagaha (the 1st and 4th accused persons), filed a bail application for his clients on various grounds.

Similar applications were made by Ibrahim Imadegbelo, representing Musa Mohammed (the 2nd accused), I. G. Kelubia, standing for Friday Paul (the 3rd defendant), and E. C. Sogo, who argued for Ayebaifife Suobite (the 5th accused person).

The lawyers pointed out to Justice Lifu that their clients have been in custody since October 25, 2025, and urged the court to grant them bail on liberal terms.

In a brief ruling, Justice Lifu granted them bail in the sum of N5 million each, along with two sureties for each, in a similar amount. The sureties are required to swear to an affidavit of means, provide evidence of three years of tax payment, demonstrate visible means of livelihood, and submit recent passport photographs.

Justice Lifu ordered that the claims of identities of the sureties must be verified by the Registrar of the Court.

Pending the perfection of the bail conditions, the Judge ordered that the accused persons be remanded in Kuje Correctional Centre in Abuja and fixed July 22 for the commencement of trial.

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UBA Reinforces Commitment to Rewarding Customer-Loyalty with N400m Bonus

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2 days ago

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July 1, 2026

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UBA Rewards Customer Loyalty with Over ₦400 Million Bumper Account Anniversary Bonus
…Reinforces commitment to rewarding customers for consistent savings
Africa’s Global Bank, United Bank for Africa (UBA) Plc, has rewarded thousands of customers with over ₦400 million in anniversary bonuses under its flagship UBA Bumper Account, reaffirming the Bank’s unwavering commitment to rewarding customer loyalty and promoting a strong savings culture.

The payout, one of the largest loyalty rewards under the Bumper Account initiative since its launch, saw qualifying customers receive anniversary bonuses directly into their accounts, demonstrating UBA’s resolve to create lasting value for customers who consistently save with the Bank.

The UBA Bumper Account is a unique savings product that rewards customers simply for maintaining and growing their savings. Every year an eligible account reaches its anniversary, customers receive a cash bonus, making disciplined saving both rewarding and beneficial over time.
Speaking on the milestone, UBA’s Head, Retail Products, Tomiwa Sotiloye, said the Bank remains committed to ensuring that customers benefit directly from their relationship with UBA.

“At UBA, we believe customer loyalty deserves meaningful recognition. Every bonus paid is our way of saying ‘thank you’ to customers who continue to trust us with their financial aspirations. Surpassing the ₦400 million milestone reflects our commitment to creating products that not only help customers save but also reward them in tangible ways. It is another demonstration that when our customers grow, we grow with them.”

He added that both new and existing customers can open a UBA Bumper Account seamlessly through https://on.ubagroup.com/bumper-tc, any any UBA branch, the UBA Mobile Banking App, by dialing *919#, or online, positioning themselves to qualify for future anniversary rewards.

Also speaking, UBA’s Group Head, Brands, Marketing and Corporate Communications, Alero Ladipo, said the Bank’s customer-centric philosophy continues to shape its product offerings.

“The UBA Bumper Account reflects our unwavering commitment to putting customers first. We deliberately design products that reward responsible financial behaviour while delivering real value. Crediting over ₦400 million directly into customers’ accounts is not just a payout; it is evidence of our promise to make banking more rewarding and to continually appreciate the confidence our customers repose in us.”

The UBA Bumper Account remains one of the Bank’s flagship retail savings products, combining competitive savings benefits, digital convenience and attractive loyalty rewards. It forms part of UBA’s broader strategy to deepen financial inclusion by encouraging sustainable savings habits while delivering exceptional customer experiences.

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Dele Momodu Leadership Centre Hosts Media Scholar, Prof Abiodun Adeniyi

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2 days ago

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July 1, 2026

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By Anjorin Fehintola Stella

We often measure leadership by the institutions people build or the positions they occupy. Yet, during his visit to the Dele Momodu Leadership Centre, Professor Abiodun Adeniyi repeatedly returned to something less visible but perhaps more enduring; the responsibility of documenting one’s life and thoughts. He spoke as someone who understands, at a personal level, what is lost when experience is left unrecorded. His emphasis on documentation was not stylistic advice for writers. It was an argument about memory itself, about how societies retain or lose the wisdom of the people who pass through them.

Ideas disappear when they are undocumented because memory, at the collective level, is fragile and selective. A society does not remember everything that happens within it, it remembers what is written down, repeated, taught, or institutionalised. An undocumented thought, however brilliant, dies with the person who held it, or worse, drifts into vague anecdote, stripped of its original precision. This is why oral cultures, for all their richness, often struggle to transmit complex ideas across generations with fidelity. Professor Adeniyi’s point, then, was not simply about personal record-keeping. History remembers people largely through what they leave behind, not through what they intended to leave behind. Intention without artefact disappears.

When he spoke about travelling, it would be easy to reduce his words to a fondness for movement or exposure. But the deeper claim runs further than that. Travel disrupts familiarity. It exposes individuals to different ways of living, thinking, governing and imagining society. Professor Adeniyi suggested that travelling remains one of the simplest yet most profound forms of education because it broadens not only knowledge but perspective. A person confined to one environment mistakes the local for the universal. Movement across geographies forces a confrontation with alternative logics, alternative arrangements of power, family, and meaning, and that confrontation is often where genuine learning begins.

Perhaps the strongest advice he gave concerned the pursuit of a doctorate. When Aare Dele Momodu spoke of his desire to pursue a PhD, Professor Adeniyi’s response challenged a growing culture in which academic qualifications are sometimes pursued as symbols of prestige rather than vehicles of inquiry. A PhD earned for the title that follows a name produces a credential without a contribution. A PhD earned out of genuine curiosity produces new knowledge and, more importantly, sustains the kind of intellectual restlessness that defines a thinking life. Professor Adeniyi’s counsel was that one should choose a field that strikes them professionally and personally, something that connects to lived purpose rather than social signalling, because the value of advanced study lies in the questions it forces a person to keep asking long after the degree is conferred.

Professor Abiodun did not reserve his counsel for matters of scholarship alone. Turning to the younger staff in the room, Professor Adeniyi offered something closer to reassurance than instruction, that everything they are currently going through, the uncertainty, the striving, the sense of being far from where they hope to be, is a phase both he and Aare Dele Momodu have lived through themselves. It was a reminder that ambition rarely moves on a straight or visible timeline. The goals and dreams that feel distant now are not denied, only delayed, and what stands between the present moment and their fulfilment is simply time and dedication, applied without pause.

 

Underneath all these threads, travel, documentation, the meaning of scholarship, was a single, unifying idea about legacy. Legacy isn’t what people say about you. It’s what remains after you leave. This distinction matters because praise is temporary and circumstantial, shaped by mood, politics, and memory’s natural decay. What remains, however, is structural. It is the book on a shelf, the institution still running, the idea still being taught.

This is where the conversation returned, inevitably, to the Centre itself. The library. The scholars’ rooms. The conversations. The institution. Professor Adeniyi appeared genuinely moved by what he encountered, not by the scale of the buildings, but by what the buildings were designed to hold. Perhaps that is why Professor Adeniyi appeared genuinely moved by the Centre. It was never merely about architecture. It was about permanence. Buildings become legacy only when they preserve ideas.

Every visit leaves footprints. Some are physical. Others are intellectual. Professor Abiodun Adeniyi’s visit left the latter.

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