By Dapo Akinrefon

A socio-cultural organisation, Yoruba Global Council, YGC, weekend, endorsed the candidacy of the All Progressives Congress, APC, presidential candidate, Asiwaju Bola Tinubu, for the February 25 presidential election.

The group noted that Tinubu’s track record as Lagos State governor, when he appointed Igbo as commissioners, and other qualified non-Yoruba persons into key governmental positions, speaks volumes of his belief in the oneness of Nigeria.

YGC, in a statement by its spokesperson and General Secretary, Professor Lere Amusan and Prince Segun Akanni, said: “Tinubu only, among the top three candidates for the February 25 presidential election, possesses the required standard in education, exposure and experience to move Nigerians out of their present challenges and provide Nigerians a new lease of life in line with his campaign slogan, ‘Renewed Hope’.  

“Nigeria’s foundation appears to be shaky as songs of disintegration and dismemberment are being echoed by different ethnic nationalities on account of the age-long discontent and disillusionment occasioned by the inequitable distribution of the country’s commonwealth and the apparent neglect of the Federal Character Code, thereby denying some sections of Nigeria a sense of belonging.  

“Tinubu and the party he represents, APC, is conscious of the depressing nature of our country and, if elected, is more than determined to right the wrongs and bring genuine relief to the victimized and marginalised Nigerians, as well as creating an enabling environment for all Nigerians to thrive and succeed irrespective of tribe, religion or party affiliation.

“There are pretenders who pay lip service to the issue of unity and diversity of the country. However, Tinubu’s noble ideals have continued to be replicated by successive governors in Lagos State, from Fashola to Ambode and now, Sanwo-Olu.

“Therefore, the leadership of YGC calls on all Nigerians, especially Yoruba voters, to come out in their millions and cast their ballots for Asiwaju Bola Tinubu, and also protect their votes. This is not the time for name-calling. It is not the time for blame games and it is not the right time for politics of bitterness.”