The Kwara South Youth Congress express its deep concern regarding a recent article circulating online through the Ibolo Renaissance Network (IRN). This article claims to represent the views of the Elemona of Ilemona, who also serves as the Aide-de-Camp to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Col. Nurudeen Yusuf. The focus of the article revolves around alleged land encroachments attributed to the residents of Offa town
Spanning 16 paragraphs, the article is rife with inaccuracies and serves as a direct affront to the dignity of the millions of indigenes from Offa, both at home and in the diaspora. For decades, the community of Offa has maintained a harmonious existence, and the allegations posited by IRN are not only unfounded but also harmful.
IRN’s assertions imply that Offa has a history of annexing lands belonging to neighboring communities like Ira, Erin-Ile, Ijagbo Ipee and others; however, they fail to present any tangible evidence to support these damaging claims. What is the border connectivity of the people of Offa and Ira? Ashir asked IRN. This lack of proof, coupled with the shadowy nature of the IRN itself, raises questions about the credibility of the article and its motives. The Kwara South Youth Congress stands united in rejecting these baseless accusations and calls for a respectful dialogue grounded in truth and mutual understanding.
In a recent press statement, Adejare Bashir, the publicity secretary for the Kwara State Youth Council (KSYC), addressed the ongoing allegations of land encroachment against the ADC, Col. Nurudeen Yusuf. Bashir emphasized that these claims have escalated beyond mere speculation, asserting that the faceless group is attempting to mislead the public. He pointed out that concerned victims have already taken steps by submitting formal petitions against the Elemona of Ilemona, underscoring the seriousness of the situation. Bashir urged the misinformed members of the IRN to verify their facts before engaging in what he described as pseudo damage control efforts.
In his effort to clarify the situation further, Bashir outlined several key points:
1. The Offa Descendants Union (ODU) has released a statement regarding allegations directed towards Colonel Nurudeen Yusuf. The ODU confirmed that it has initiated a thorough investigation to ascertain the facts surrounding the claims.
2. Residents of the Igberi-Enle community in Offa, who are one of the chief groups accusing the ADC of land encroachment, have officially submitted a petition to the Kwara State Government. This petition was filed on January 25, 2025, demonstrating the community’s proactive approach to address their grievances.
3. Additionally, various petitions have been lodged with the Department of State Services (DSS) and other relevant agencies by the citizens affected by the alleged land encroachment. This collective action illustrates the community’s commitment to seeking justice and resolution for their concerns.
Bashir’s statement highlights the importance of addressing misinformation and emphasizes the need for proper channels to be followed in resolving community disputes.
Bashir also pinpoints the importance of caution for Col. Nurudeen Yusuf, given the deep-rooted and long-standing relationships that have existed between the communities of Ilemona and Offa for many centuries. He stressed that those who are instigating conflict in this delicate situation should think carefully about the historical and familial connections that the ADC shares with the people of Offa.
Bashir reassured the public that the Kwara South Youth Congress (KSYC) remains neutral in the ongoing discussions and disputes surrounding this issue. However, he firmly warned that any aggression directed towards the peaceful and law-abiding citizens of Offa, potentially instigated by individuals claiming to represent Col. Nurudeen Yusuf or by ADC himself, could escalate into a broader communal crisis. He reiterated that it is imperative for dialogue and decision-making to be guided by principles of law, equity, and common sense. He expressed concern that the involvement of the IRN—an organization with no legitimate ties to Kwara South—should not dictate matters of such grave significance. Bashir warns that any further confrontation against the indigenes of Offa will be taken seriously.
In his closing remarks, Bashir pointed out the credentials of Dr. Oluwatobi Afolayan, the President of the Kwara South Youth Congress, emphasizing that he is a well-respected surgeon and highlighting the expertise of other KSYC members. This stands in stark contrast to the “fake” IRN, which lacks the credibility and established presence necessary to engage in serious discussions about these important issues.
