Prof Akintoye Emerges as New Yoruba Leader

Ololade Adeyanju/

Some elders and groups in South-West Nigeria today elected a new leader for the Yoruba race in Ibadan, Oyo State capital.

The new leader, 84-year-old professor of history, Adebanji Akintoye, emerged in the tradition which had thrown up the late Chief Obafemi Awolowo, Pa Adekunle Ajasin, and Senator Abraham Adesanya.

The election was witnessed by notable Yoruba leaders including a 135-year-old Pa Olamilekan Akekaka.

The session moderated by an activist, Dr Tunde Amusat was convened by Comrade Victor Taiwo, founder of Oodua Redemption Alliance.

Taiwo said a notable Yoruba leader, Pa Ayo Adebanjo had been severally contacted to be the new leader but he turned down the offer on age ground.

In attendance at the Glory View Hotel, Bodija, Ibadan where the election was held were the Baale of Ekotedo, Chief Taye Ayorinde; Chief Deji Osibogun; clergymen, members of the Oodua Peoples Congress (New Era); Oodua Redemption Alliance; Majiyagbe Oodua Vanguard; Awari Omo Oduduwa; among others.

Akintoye was unanimously adopted.

When Sheikh Abdukareem Aduranigba, the Chief Imam of Yorubaland representing the Yoruba people in Kwara and Kogi states moved the motion for Akintoye as the new leader, all the elders present backed the nomination.

With 14 leadership qualities itemized by the convener, Akintoye was identified as a leader who possesses wisdom, high intellect, patriotism to Yoruba cause, passionate commitment, bravery, uncompromising trait, probity, honesty, truthfulness, integrity, friendliness, sense of arbitration, physical agility, mental alertness, accessibility and amiability.

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