In the tumultuous aftermath of recent events in Oyo State, Nigeria, Professor Banji Akintoye, a prominent leader of the Yoruba self-determination movement, has stepped forward to condemn the violence, attributing it to the actions of hoodlums allegedly working under the direction of Mrs. Dupe Onitiri, the former spouse of the late MKO Abiola.
From his base in Cotonou, Republic of Benin, Professor Akintoye clarified that the Yoruba Nation agitation, spearheaded by himself and Chief Sunday Igboho, played no part in the recent incursion into the government headquarters in Ibadan, Oyo State. He stressed that their objective remains the peaceful pursuit of an independent Yoruba Republic. Expressing concern over Mrs. Dupe Onitiri’s alleged involvement, Akintoye cautioned fellow agitators against aligning with her, labeling her as an adversary to their cause.
“I have no doubt she is working for the Fulanis or other entities against our simple objective of leaving Nigeria peacefully. I have warned all peace-loving agitators to distance themselves from this devilish character; she is an enemy,” Akintoye asserted.
The recent unrest in Oyo State witnessed 18 suspected agitators of the Yoruba Nation attempting to seize control of the Oyo House of Assembly. Clad in military attire and armed with rifles, they strategically positioned themselves within the Oyo State Government Secretariat. However, swift action by security forces led to the arrest of some intruders and the dispersal of the remainder with tear gas canisters.
Subsequent investigations resulted in the apprehension of nine individuals claiming to have been dispatched by Mrs. Dupe Onitiri. Concurrently, Mrs. Dupe Onitiri, in a bold move, declared a self-independent Yoruba Republic on the same day, prompting the federal government of Nigeria to issue a warrant for her arrest.
Many observers view the attempted power grab in Oyo State as an orchestrated effort to destabilize the existing government and incite discord and violence between Ilana Omo Oodua and other Yoruba self-determination groups against the Federal Government of Nigeria. Akintoye emphasized the need for a thorough investigation and swift justice to be served.
The situation underscores the intricate nature of the Yoruba self-determination movement, where internal divisions and external influences pose formidable challenges to the attainment of their goals. As investigations proceed and government efforts to restore order intensify, the Yoruba Nation remains resolute in its quest for autonomy within the Nigerian federation.
