The Leader of Ilana Omo Oodua, Prof. Banji Akintoye, has urged Yoruba Nation agitators not to be deterred by the reported plots by the Federal Government to arrest him.
This is as he urged them to keep hope alive, adding that Ilana Omo Oodua will not be distracted in its agitation for Yoruba Nation.
He explained that he had done nothing wrong to warrant being arrested.
According to him, the agitation for Yoruba Nation has been peaceful across South-West.
Earlier, the professor of history had claimed that he relocated from Nigeria to Benin Republic to secure the release of a Yoruba Nation activist, Sunday Adeyemo, popularly referred to as Sunday Igboho.
In a statement on Tuesday, Akintoye denied merging with another body to actualise Yoruba Nation.
The statement titled, ‘Ilana Omo Oodua Remains the Umbrella Body of Yoruba Self-Determination Groups Worldwide, was signed by Maxwell Adeleye,
Communications Secretary of IOO.
The statement added, “Your renowned, acknowledged, trusted and respected body, Ilana Omo Oodua under the leadership of Emeritus Professor Banji Akintoye, remains the umbrella body of Yoruba Self-Determination Groups Worldwide.
“We have not merged with any group nor change our name, and we do not have the intention of doing so.
“Our mission and vision is so clear: We want an Independent Yoruba Nation from Nigeria that will be accomplished through our uncompromised and sustained peaceful agitation.
“Nevertheless, IOO is not aversed to the formation of other Yoruba Self-Determination Groups, and shall do everything within its power to encourage such.
“Ilana Omo Oodua shall keep getting stronger, and continue to accept all likeminds into its fold for the benefit and liberation of our people.
“We urge you all to keep hope alive.”
-Culled from punch
