Yoruba leaders close ranks ahead of 2011 elections

Written by The Punch Wednesday, 21 July 2010

Ahead of the 2011 elections, some Yoruba leaders have started moves aimed at reconciling those who are already in different factions.

To this end, a peace meeting was held in Ibadan, Oyo State capital, on Tuesday at the instance of a former Osun State Commissioner for Finance, Chief Lere Adebayo.

Our correspondent learnt that the meeting behind closed doors was held at the Premier Hotel, Ibadan.

Some of those who were said to be present at the meeting were Senator Mojisoluwa Akinfenwa; Chief Michael Koleoso, a former Oyo State Governor, Alhaji Lam Adesina; Senator Femi Okunrounmu, Pa Ayo Fasanmi, Mr. Iyiola Oladokun and Alhaji Adegbenga Kaka.

While confirming the meeting to our correspondent, Adebayo said Yoruba leaders needed to come together and speak with one voice on issues bordering on the continued existence of the Yoruba nation.

He said Yoruba leaders were ready to be united on issues affecting them.

He said invitations to subsequent meeting would be extended to some Yoruba leaders like Chief Olu Falae, Asiwaju Bola Tinubu and Chief Olusegun Osoba, who were absent at the parley.

“The political legacy of the late sage, Chief Obafemi Awolowo, has been in disarray and we thought it fit that it is better we put our house in order so that we can speak with one voice during elections,” he said.