The Southern Kaduna Peoples United-Associations, SOKAPU, has publicly distanced itself from the planned 2026 Southern Kaduna Festival, known as SKFEST, scheduled to hold from May 28th to 30th in Kafanchan.

The President of the association, Engr. Tabara Samuel Kato, in Kaduna, said the group festival was not approved, organized, or endorsed by SOKAPU, which it described as the recognized socio-cultural umbrella body of Southern Kaduna people.

SOKAPU also warned top government officials, traditional rulers, and members of the public that the organizers of the event do not represent the mainstream leadership of the region.

The association further raised security concerns, alleging that some individuals behind the festival may attempt to create tension and falsely implicate SOKAPU.

Kato added that the organizers are not authorized to collect funds or act on behalf of Southern Kaduna people.