Arewa Youth Council Disowns Anti-Atiku Statement, Labels Adams Reuben an Impostor

The Arewa Youth Council (AYC) has disassociated itself from a recent controversial statement attacking former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, describing the publication as the handiwork of an impostor, Adams Reuben, who it says has no affiliation with the organization.

The statement in question, titled “Arewa Youths Blast Atiku Over Attacks on Tinubu, Say Ex-VP is Bitter, Hypocritical”, was published across various national dailies on April 18, 2025, generating public backlash and media scrutiny.

In a counter-statement issued on Friday, the AYC strongly condemned the remarks and clarified its official position.

The statement was jointly signed by Ambassador Dogo Shagari, the recognized President of the Arewa Youth Council, and Mallam Abdullahi Bilal, the Council’s Publicity Secretary.

“We wish to categorically state that the individual known as Reuben Adams is not a member of our organization and has never held any position within the Arewa Youth Council,” Shagari stated.

Describing Adams’ actions as unauthorized, misleading, and potentially inflammatory, the AYC warned that such impersonation could stoke political tension and mislead the public.

The Council called on the Nigeria Police Force, Department of State Services (DSS), and other relevant security agencies to investigate and prosecute Reuben for impersonation and related offenses.

Reaffirming its commitment to national unity, youth development, and peaceful coexistence, the AYC distanced itself from statements capable of inciting hate or destabilizing the country.

“We remain committed to responsible advocacy that fosters peace and national development,” the group stated.

The AYC also urged media organizations to verify the identities and credentials of individuals claiming to represent national bodies before granting them platforms.

“For accurate information and official updates, we urge the public to rely solely on communications issued by the duly recognized leadership of the Arewa Youth Council,” the statement concluded.