The Youth Wing of the Southern Kaduna People’s Union (SOKAPU) has publicly disavowed a group claiming to represent them under the name Southern Kaduna People United Association (SOKAPUA), accusing the latter of impersonation and attempting to sow confusion within the community.
In a statement by Maikano Jerry Mendos, the leader of the SOKAPU Youth Wing, the group explicitly distanced itself from SOKAPUA, highlighting that the two organisations are distinct in their logos, mottos, and visions. SOKAPU’s motto, “Unity in Diversity,” stands in contrast to SOKAPUA’s “One People, One Destiny.”
Mendos urged the public to exercise caution and disregard claims by SOKAPUA, which he accused of falsely using SOKAPU’s branding to mislead the public and gain undue legitimacy.
The controversy stems from SOKAPUA’s alleged use of SOKAPU’s logo in their publications, a move the Youth Wing described as a deliberate attempt to exploit SOKAPU’s established reputation.
This has raised concerns about potential motives to create conflict or undermine the credibility of the legitimate SOKAPU Youth Wing.
On the issue of the recall process targeting Senator Sunday Marshall Katung, the SOKAPU Youth Wing maintained a neutral stance, describing it as an internal matter with political dimensions that can be resolved within the organisation.
“We have no intention of engaging in disputes with any group,” Mendos stated, emphasising their commitment to avoiding unnecessary conflict.
The SOKAPU Youth Wing’s clarification underscores their effort to protect their integrity and distance themselves from what they perceive as attention-seeking tactics by SOKAPUA. By addressing the issue publicly, the group aims to prevent further confusion and maintain focus on their core objectives.