The Independent Yoruba Movement in Oyo State recently held its inauguration program, where members were charged to be more committed to the preservation and promotion of Yoruba heritage. The event, which took place in Ona-Ara local government area of Oyo state, saw the mobilization of members from all over the state including community leaders, scholars, farmers, traditional leaders, religion leaders and others who interested in the movement’s goal.

While introducing the diginitaries at the event, the coodinator of the movement, Mr Gbade Folahanmi explained that the movement is cutting across the 33 local governments in the pacesetter state for people who are interesting in joining the movement.

In his opening speech, the Convener/President of the Independent Yoruba Movement, Alhaji Yusuf Ajikobi stressed the importance of promoting Yoruba culture and values, noting that without collective efforts, the language, beliefs, and traditions of the Yoruba people may be lost to future generations.

He said: “The Yoruba people are known all over the world for their rich culture and heritage, and it is our responsibility to ensure that these values are transmitted to the next generation”.

“We must work together to revive our traditions, promote our language, and preserve our history. The movement is aimed at boosting the economy of Yoruba land and eradicate poverty, kidnapping, raping and Fulani/farmers crisis in Yoruba land”. Ajikobi expressed.

Mr Ajikobi stressed furthermore that the Independent Yoruba Movement condemned a statement in video released from Northern Concensus Movement threatening the stoppage of food supply to tye southern parts of Nigeria, giving federal government ultimatum of 21 days. He explained that this acts from Northern parts of the country as caused tension to the southern part of the country which can affect the peaceful co-existence among Nigerians.

Mr Ajikobi now advised the federal government to approach this statement with caution and emphasis the need for unity and collaboration between different ethnic groups in Nigeria. He appreciates the past contributions of some of Yoruba activists like  Chief MKO Abiola, Bola Ige, Ladoke Akintola, Obafemi Awolowo, Samuel Ajayi Crowther, Chief Imam Yoruba land, Alhaji Aduramigba among others.

The inauguration program also featured cultural performances, lectures, and discussions on issues affecting the Yoruba people, such as education, health, and economic development among others.

In his keynote address, a renowned Yoruba scholar, Commander David Olumeeto, who is a member of Red-Alart Yoruba Movement emphasized the need for Yoruba people to take ownership of their development, calling for the creation of a sustainable economic model that would benefit the Yoruba people. He also emphasized that, Yoruba need a drastic step to settle every crisis among themselves.

“We need to love one another, be vigilant and promoting the peaceful environment in Yoruba land”.

He said: “We need to develop a comprehensive economic plan that is rooted in our local resources and culture. We must take ownership of our development and create an economic model that is sustainable and benefits our people. This can only be achieved if we work together.”

When given his remarks, Chief Abidemi, Baale Alaagba village in Ona-Ara explained that Yoruba people should engage themselves in farming to improve food security within our community.  Yoruba should not depends on other tribes for foods.

“We need to encourage farming system in our land as to improve in food security and not depends on other ethnic groups for food materials. Let make sure we develop a comprehensive passion for farming within our community. Baale Abidemi concluded.

Doctor Saka Akinade appreciates the convener of Independent Yoruba Movement for their contributions towards poverty eradication in yoruba land, especially in Oyo State. He thanked the Red-Alert Security team for excellent performance in settled the road blockage that happened recently along Olorunsogo-Akanran road. He encouraged memebers to cooperates with leadership of Independent Yoruba Movement to achieve more of it’s aims and objectives.

In his reaction, chairman Ona-Ara farmer’s association, Mr. Akintola Olubamiji emphasized that, every Yoruba sons and daughters need to go back to farm in other to  reduce high-cost of food items in the country. He promised to contribute positively to the Independent Yoruba Movement especially on farming sector and finances.

The Independent Yoruba Movement in Oyo State aims to promote the Yoruba culture and values, advocate for the rights of the Yoruba people, and create avenues for economic empowerment for members.