Yoruba community harps on unity, harmony in Sokoto

Yoruba community in Sokoto has promised to continue fostering in unity, tolerance and harmony.

This was reiterated in Sokoto on Saturday during a conference meeting organized by its leadership, with the theme ‘Unity Among the Yorubas in Sokoto State’.

The meeting, which was attended by notable Yoruba leaders in the state, that include the President General, Yoruba Community Council, Chief James Olorunfemi, its Grabd Patron, Chief Andy Abayomi, Chief Imam of Yoruba community, Prof. S. O. Rabiu, Iyalode of Yoruba community, Chief Sarah Anjorin, President, Yoruba community Women wing, Alhaja Kudirat Atitebi and Basorun Yoruba Community, Chief Philip Ekunboyejo among others.

The Guest Speaker, Prof. Abdulganiyu Ayodele Salawu of the Department of Education Foundations, Usmanu Danfodiyo, Sokoto, who spoke on the theme: “Unity Among The Yoruba in Sokoto State: A case for peaceful coexistence” described Yoruba race as peace-loving people.

He applauded the membets for their self-dignity and cultural oriented value in the society and cahrged them to be united at all time.

According to him: “Conformity is needed to propelled the glory of Yoruba race. Let us respect our individuality in order to remain one entity. Our coming to Sokoto is a divine”.

Salawu noted thus: “One problem facing the Yoruba was the isuue of whether one is an indigene or not. No matter how long you stay in a place , you do not belong.

“When we were growing up in this country, especially here in Sokoto and some other parts of Northern Nigeria in the 50s through 60s and late 70s, wherever you are is your home. Today, the situation is no more the same partly because of development and other societal changes.

Salawu urged the Yoruba people in the state to continue to educate their wards on the rich culture and social value of Yoruba race.

“The education for peaceful coexistence is the responsibility of everyone in the society. Starting from our leaders who should rule by examples, parents who should give proper training to their children and make them learn to value human lives, be tolerant, humble abd respect the views of other persons.”

He further commended Sokoto State Government, the Sultanate council and the people of the state for their hospitality spirit. “The Government and the Sultanate have been carrying everyone along.”

In his opening remarks, the President General, Yoruba Community Council, Chief James Olorunfemi said the meeting was convened to further foster peace and unity that has been existing among members across the state.

He urged parents to guide their children against violence or any act that could tarnish the good image enjoying by Yoruba people in the state during the forthcoming general elections.