Renowned emeritus Professor of History and chairman of the Nigerian Indigenous Nationalities Alliance for Self-Determination (NINAS), Professor Banji Akintoye, who also leads Ilana Omo Oodua, recently discussed President Bola Tinubu’s reforms and expectations for his presidency. Akintoye commended Tinubu’s actions and decisions thus far, emphasizing his dedication to nation-building and proper governance. Akintoye expressed gratitude that Tinubu did not follow the precedent of appointing family members as chiefs of the military, highlighting the need for competent replacements like those who understand banking and monetary policies.
Regarding the removal of fuel subsidy, Akintoye criticized the opaque administration of the subsidy in the past, describing it as a scam that favored the wealthy. He acknowledged the initial pain caused by its removal but believed that people would adjust and accept it as a necessary change for the country’s business operations.
On the issue of security and the appointment of new service chiefs, Akintoye expressed dissatisfaction with the current state of security, particularly the killings carried out by the Fulani herders. He called for the removal of the herders from Yorubaland and advocated for the West to focus on modernizing agriculture to counter the destruction caused by the herders.
When asked about providing palliatives to mitigate the impact of subsidy removal on the poorest citizens, Akintoye suggested that the pain would eventually subside and urged Tinubu not to restore the subsidy. He viewed the reforms of the country’s monetary policies, including the lifting of forex restrictions, as positive steps that would prevent abuses and promote fairness.
When discussing the likelihood of pushback from powerful cartels affected by these reforms, Akintoye cautioned that such resistance could arise and urged the Yoruba people to remain vigilant and ready to defend their interests.
Akintoye expressed pride in the appointment of Yoruba individuals to key positions in government, such as the Customs CG and Chief of Army Staff. However, he acknowledged that restructuring Nigeria or devolving power to the states would face opposition from those who benefit from the status quo.
Regarding the agitation for the Yoruba Nation, Akintoye believed that President Tinubu needed to address the root causes of the agitation and remove the elements of evil within the country. However, he remained watchful and expressed concern about potential resistance to Tinubu’s governance.
Akintoye criticized the policy that allowed unchecked influx of people into Nigeria, particularly initiated by President Buhari. He called for immediate action to address the issue and prevent unwanted elements from entering the country.
Regarding the invasion of a radio station in Ibadan by some members of the Yoruba Nation, Akintoye distanced himself and the Yoruba self-determination movement from the actions of a woman named Onitiri. He criticized her claims of possessing a document from the United Nations and emphasized the peaceful and law-abiding nature of the Yoruba struggle for self-determination. Akintoye urged young people not to engage in lawlessness and condemned the actions of those who occupied Yorubaland without considering the existing government. He stressed that the Yoruba self-determination movement should be pursued through peaceful means, such as advocacy and petitioning.
