Prof. Banji Akintoye, the leader of the apex body of the Yoruba self-determination struggle, Ilana Omo Oodua Worldwide, has resigned.
According to reports, Akintoye resigned due to alleged infighting among members of the self-determination group.
However, in a statement issued on Thursday to announce Akintoye’s decision, the group’s General Secretary, Tunde Amusat, stated that the former Yoruba Nation leader handed over leadership to his former Deputy, Prof. Wale Adeniran.
Amusat claimed Akintoye handed over the leadership to Adeniran due to old age and a weakened body system.
According to Amusat, 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.
He added that the proposed amendment to 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,” the statement read.