According to Vanguard, the Yoruba Self Determination Movement (YSDM) and the pan-Yoruba socio-political organization, Afenifere, expressed differing views yesterday regarding the pursuit of a Yoruba Nation.
The YSDM, led by Emeritus Professor Banji Akintoye, maintained that achieving a sovereign Yoruba Nation is essential for realizing their vision of prosperity. Conversely, Afenifere continues to advocate for restructuring within the existing national framework.
In a statement titled ‘The Deadly Distraction of Regionalism,’ YSDM General Secretary Moses Ojo reassured Yoruba people that their self-determination efforts remain on track. Ojo emphasized ongoing diplomatic engagements with key stakeholders, underlining the importance of unity against internal adversaries.
The statement read: “The YSDM leadership is actively engaged in diplomatic moves with well-meaning stakeholders of our struggle. The suggestion for each ethnic nationality to retain their rights to self-determination as proposed by proponents of regionalism is interesting. However, we must remain unified and wise in our quest for the ultimate good, success, and prosperity of our Yoruba nation.”
Ojo cautioned against underestimating the threats posed by violent factions, stating, “It is suicidal to toy with a heavily funded, intensively armed, and fiercely terroristic group like the Fulani, who are determined to use violence to seize our ancestral homeland.”
He concluded by warning that the push for regionalism could distract from the YSDM’s goals, potentially jeopardizing the future of the Yoruba race.
Meanwhile, Afenifere reaffirmed its commitment to restructuring, highlighting the importance of addressing the nation’s systemic issues within the current political framework.