The Yoruba Council of Elders (YCE) has expressed opposition to the creation of a separate Yoruba nation, advocating instead for true federalism within Nigeria. In a statement released on Sunday, the YCE reiterated its commitment to a unified Nigeria and emphasized the need for a restructured federal system.
“We have reviewed the document on the position of YSDM regarding the state of the nation and their views on the Yoruba race separating from Nigeria,” the statement read. “The Yoruba Council of Elders remains firm that Nigeria should remain as one nation.”
The YCE acknowledged widespread feelings of marginalization among the Yoruba people due to the current federal structure. However, it emphasized that the majority are against secession. Instead, the YCE advocated for a return to the regional autonomy envisioned by Nigeria’s founding fathers. The statement highlighted that the Yoruba feel cheated by the present arrangement but are solidly against breaking away from Nigeria.
“They prefer to return to the agreement of our founding fathers when regional administration was autonomous,” the statement added. The council stressed its support for a restructured Nigeria, where states operate independently while contributing to a unified central administration. They compared their vision to the American federal system, where states function with considerable autonomy.
“YCE stands firmly on the position of the founding fathers who maintained unity while operating independently and contributing to central administration. We would rather have a restructured Nigeria, allowing states to function independently as part of a whole,” the group noted.
The YCE further called for unity and efficient management, leveraging the socio-cultural strengths of Nigeria’s diverse regions to foster national growth and development. “The strength of our unity lies in the socio-cultural heritage of each region, which can be utilized through education and efficient management. Our great country must rise again, and we all must be part of it,” the statement concluded.
Nigeria Labour Congress Stance on Minimum Wage
The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has firmly rejected the Federal Government’s proposed minimum wage of N62,000, insisting on its demand for N250,000. NLC President Joe Ajaero reiterated the union’s stance, emphasizing their commitment to fighting for workers’ interests.
Despite several meetings between the government and the NLC, both parties have failed to reach an agreement, even though the existing minimum wage expired in April 2024.
Speaking in Kano during an award ceremony organized by the National Association of Medical and Health Workers, North West zone, Ajaero, represented by NLC General Secretary Emmanuel Ugboaja, expressed concern over the economic realities and worsening inflation, which he said can no longer sustain Nigerian workers.
Ajaero reaffirmed the NLC’s unwavering commitment to securing a realistic wage that would ensure a dignified life for Nigerian workers. Kano State Deputy Governor Aminu Abdussalam, also present at the event, disclosed plans to improve workers’ salaries. He mentioned that the current administration has eliminated arbitrary deductions from salaries, paid N11 billion in pension liabilities over the past seven months, and conducted a promotion exercise for civil servants with full payment.