After weeks of twists and turns and uncleared rumors, the leader of the apex body of Yoruba Self-Determination struggle, Ilana Omo Oodua Worldwide (IOOW), Professor Banji Akintoye, has finally laid to rest his position on the seeming crisis in the Yoruba self-determination movement by resigning as the leader and handed over the baton of leadership to his former Deputy, Wale Adeniran.
Adeniran had resigned from the executive of the organization in November, citing matters of principle as the reason for his resignation.
Akintoye, a Professor of History and member of the Nigerian Senate in second republic, in a letter to Adeniran dated December 5th, 2022, a copy of which was made available to News Men on Thursday by the General Secretary of the group, Dr. Tunde Amusat, said he (Akintoye) was handling over the mantle of leadership to him (Adeniran), citing old age and weakened body system as his reasons.
Akintoye apologized that he was resigning from the management of the organization when the movement was in crisis and prayed that Adeniran brings everyone together and resolve all contending issues.
The Worldwide congress of Ilana Omo Oodua held on December 17th, 2022 accepted Akintoye’s resignation and affirmed Adeniran as the new leader of the group. The proposed amendment into the constitution affirming Adeniran’s position as Chairman will be tabled at the next worldwide congress before the end of this year for ratification by registered members.
Akintoye extolled the principled virtues of Adeniran, commending him for his consistent patience against all forms of blackmail, slanders and defamatory affirmations which had been unleashed against him in the past by those he (Akintoye) described as “disgruntled elements”.
Adeniran is a retired Assistant Professor of African Studies and the pioneer Commissioner for Education in Osun State. He hails from Ile-Ife.
