Leaders from various Yoruba groups, including Afenifere, Yoruba Unity Forum (YUF), Yoruba General Assembly, as well as traditional rulers such as the Olubadan of Ibadanland and the Oluwo of Iwo, among others, came together to condemn calls for military intervention in Nigeria at Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda Southwest Summit.
TheMediaGood Newspaper can report that the summit, organized by the Yoruba Patriots’ Movement (YPM) and Southwest Coalition of Civil Societies had prominent figures of Yoruba extraction from different sectors, including politics, academia, and traditional institutions in attendance. Among the attendees were General Alani Akinrinade (Rtd), represented by former Vice–Chancellor of the University of Ibadan, Prof Isaac Adewole; Emeritus Prof Olu Aina; and His Imperial Majesty, Oba Mahud Olalekan Ishola Balogun Alli Okunmade II, Olubadan of Ibadanland, represented by Princess Oyebunmi Oladepo.
The communique released at the summit emphasized the necessity of the ongoing reforms for the sustainable development of Nigeria while acknowledging the temporary challenges they may bring. It vehemently denounced any attempts to exploit these challenges to advocate for military intervention, calling such actions misguided and unacceptable.
Furthermore, the leaders called for unity among Nigerians in defense of democracy and the future of the nation. They stressed the importance of Yoruba elders and stakeholders supporting the ongoing reforms and collaborating with counterparts from other regions. Additionally, they urged Democrats within and outside Nigeria to defend the hard-earned democracy of the nation.
The summit also addressed various developmental issues affecting the Southwest region, including the establishment of the Southwest Development Commission and the completion of long-abandoned infrastructure projects like the Okere Gorge Dam and Owala Dam for irrigation and power generation. Other resolutions included the establishment of a Peace and Productivity Commission, prioritization of large-scale agriculture for food production and security, and the need for subsequent convocations of similar summits across Southwest States.
The summit attendees expressed optimism for the future of the Southwest and Nigeria at large, calling for concerted efforts to address the nation’s challenges while upholding democratic values and principles. This gathering of diverse leaders and stakeholders underscores the collective resolve of the Yoruba people to uphold democracy and work towards the progress and unity of Nigeria.
The highlight of the event was the Oluwo’s offer of a scholarship to Morenikeji, a talented 9-year-old artist, showcasing a commitment to nurturing young talents within the region.