Leader of Ilana Omo Oodua (IOO), Professor Banji Akintoye, has raised the alarm that the Federal Government was planning to arrest him.
Akintoye, who implored the Yoruba Nation agitators not to be moved by the alleged plan said he has done nothing wrong to warrant such a move. According to him, the agitation for the Yoruba Nation had been peaceful in all ramifications.
First News had reported that Akintoye had said he moved to the Benin Republic to support the Yoruba activist, Sunday Igboho to regain his freedom.
Akintoye spoke in a statement titled, ‘Ilana Omo Oodua Remains the Umbrella Body of Yoruba Self-Determination Groups Worldwide’, and was signed by Maxwell Adeleye, Communications Secretary of IOO on Tuesday.
According to the statement, “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 averse 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 like minds into its fold for the benefit and liberation of our people. “We urge you all to keep hope alive.”