By Harry Awurumibe, Editor Abuja Bureau
Against the backdrop of agitations for separation by some sections of the country, the newly appointed leader of the Pan- Yoruba socio-cultural group, Afenifere, Pa Ayo Adebanjo has made it abundantly clear that he is not part of secessionist agenda of some sections of the country.
Pa Adebanjo also said Yoruba leaders and Yoruba nation support restructuring of Nigeria rather than separating from the union.
Speaking Wednesday on African Independent Television (AIT) breakfast programme Kakaaki, the elder Statesman argued that he and other nationalists are not interested in the disintegration of Nigeria.
According to him, “I don’t support separationist agenda. I say no to it and I oppose it. I am for the unity of Nigeria so I don’t want the disintegration of the country”.
But Pa Adebanjo insisted on restructuring Nigeria so that the federating units can control their own affairs, pointing out that current structure of Nigeria cannot work.
The former NADECO chieftain also argued that Yoruba leaders are not against the restructuring of Nigeria, stating that even the Governor of Ondo state, Arakunri Oluwarotimi Akeredolu agrees on restructuring of Nigeria.
He said: “I publicly challenge Yoruba leaders who dare to oppose restructuring. I can confidently say that Yoruba leaders including Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinunbu and the Obas support restructuring. Nobody is against it”.
He however admitted that some Yoruba leaders who previously support restructuring have sold out immediately they achieved their selfish ambitions, adding that restructuring is the way to go if Nigeria must move forward.
