By Julius Alabi, Akure
The Coalition of Yoruba Interest Groups (CYIG) has said that the quest for Yoruba Nation self-determination is non-negotiable
This was made known yesterday at a zoom meeting when the Authority to midwife the new Yoruba nation was established by the Coalition of Yoruba Interests Groups (COYIG) with Prof. Banji Akintoye as its ceremonial head.
In her introductory remarks, Dr Mrs Janet Fashakin, a US-based lawyer recalled the saying of the late sage, Chief Obafemi Awolowo, that ‘it is not the life that matters but the courage you put into it’ saying that “Today, we are taking bold steps. We want to salute the courage of our fathers right from the time immemorial to the present leader of the Yoruba land, Prof. Banji Akintoye.
She recalled the principles of International Law and its utility as a guide to forming a nation in compliance with the Montevideo Convention of 1933.
“The Coalition of Yoruba Interests Groups had laid a foundation for which we all need to unite for a common purpose of letting our nation attain its statehood. This is not a time for us to allow divisions. COYIG, as I understand its purpose, is open to all progressive patriotic Yoruba women, men, and interest groups. COYIG is open to all patriotic ideas and suggestions,” she said.
In his acceptance speech, Prof. Akintoye thanked the Coalition and said this effort is complementary to the achievements gained at UNPO and assured the gathering that some of his children in Ilana Oodua are working actively with the Coalition.
He spoke about his achievements and the challenges facing the Yoruba nation including the benefits of being registered as a member of UNPO.
He spoke of regular advice given to his organisation by UNPO and admonished all the groups to be united as symbolized by the Coalition.
He said the Nigerian Indigenous Nationalities of the Southern and Middle Belt Territories of Nigeria who recently declared a Constitutional Force Majeure made him their President and that a non-violent approach will be deployed to ensure that the dreams of nationalities are achieved.
He saw hope on the horizon and that all ethnic nationalities must work together to realize this.
However, Otunba Demola Edward has been appointed the Interim Spokesman for the Yoruba Nation Global Directorate, while Mr Olayomi Koiki of Koiki Media is the new interim media consultant.
In an interview, Edward said it’s an honour to serve the Yoruba nation at this time of her most critical need and assured that the directorate will work assiduously to unite all interest groups in the Yoruba project towards liberating the nation from the current unfortunate contraction.
He enjoined all Yoruba at home and in the diaspora to support efforts of the directorate to save the land from imminent genocide sponsored by the Fulani led government of Nigeria.