••Okun Man Claims Yoruba Muslims Face Oppression, Declares “Time for Jihad Conversation”
By Juliet Aliwo.
A recent online discussion has ignited controversy and concern within the Yoruba community following alarming remarks made by an Okun man from Kogi State, identified as Abbey, who identifies more with his Fulani heritage. During a recorded X Space discussion titled “No Space for Hate Mongering in Nigeria,” Abbey issued threats and intimidating statements directed at the Yoruba people, specifically conservatives, citing the rejection of Sharia law in the South West as justification.
Abbey argued that the rights of Muslims to practice Islam are under threat due to the Yoruba’s stance on Sharia implementation. He expressed shame in his Yoruba heritage and labeled non-Muslim Yorubas as the “most intolerant human beings,” particularly those he termed “conservatives.” He further claimed these individuals are primarily active on social media and lack established roots in Yorubaland.
“It is no longer a cruise; it is now very clear that there is an agenda to completely ostracise Muslims and Islam from southwest Nigeria,” Abbey stated. “This is where Jihad conversation comes about… Your right to practise your religion is being threatened. That is why you are admonished, that is the only thing you should fight.”
He compared the situation of Muslims in the South West to that of Palestinians in Gaza, alleging they are being treated as second-class citizens in their own land. He also criticized state governors and traditional rulers for giving voice to online critics of Sharia law.
Describing himself as non-Yoruba, an Okun man with a Fulani mother, Abbey emphasized his identification with his Fulani heritage. He asserted that the current discourse is merely a prelude to future actions. He also dismissed the political influence of the Yoruba people, stating, “If I ever come to you to ask for your votes, the hell with you and your votes. I don’t need the vote of Lagos, I don’t need the vote of Osun… they are useless to me.”
Abbey’s statements have sparked outrage and raised concerns about potential escalation of tensions. The timing of these remarks coincides with ongoing debates surrounding the role of Sharia law in various parts of Nigeria. His pronouncements have been widely circulated on social media, prompting calls for peace and unity from community leaders and concerned citizens.
