Eminent sons of Yorubaland under the aegis of “Assembly of All Yoruba groups Worldwide” on Thursday elected Prof. Banji Akintoye, a renowned Historian, as the fourth leader of the Yoruba race.
His election which was applauded by many saw him emerging with 73 votes to defeat former Lagos State Governor Asiwaju Ahmed Bola Tinubu who polled three votes.
Akintoye, 85, becomes the fourth Yoruba Leader, coming after the late Chief Obafemi Awolowo; Pa Adekunle Ajasin and Senator Abraham Adesanya.
The event, which was moderated by an activist, Dr. Tunde Amusat, was convened by Comrade Victor Taiwo, founder of Oodua Redemption Alliance. Taiwo said that a notable Yoruba leader, Pa Ayo Adebanjo, had been severally contacted to be the new leader but he turned down the offer on age ground.
In attendance at the Glory View Hotel, Bodija, Ibadan where the election took place were many dignitaries including the 135-year-old Pa Olamilekan Akekaka, Baale of Ekotedo, Chief Taye Ayorinde; Chief Deji Osibogun; clergymen; members of the Oodua Peoples Congress (New Era); Oodua Redemption Alliance; Majiyagbe Oodua Vanguard; Awari Omo Oduduwa; among others.
Sheikh Abdukraheem Aduranigba , Chief Imam of Yorubaland representing Yorubas in Kwara and Kogi states moved the motion for Akintoye as new leader.
