South West governors commended the Aare Onakakanfo of Yoruba land, Iba Adams, and the Oodua People’s Congress (OPC) for their contributions to regional security and the promotion of Yoruba culture and traditions.
The six governors, including Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos, Seyi Makinde of Oyo, Ademola Adeleke of Osun, Dapo Abiodun of Ogun, Abiodun Oyebanji of Ekiti, and Lucky Aiyedatiwa of Ondo, expressed their appreciation during the 30th anniversary celebration of OPC in Lagos. The event was attended by dignitaries, including traditional rulers, cultural organizations, and captains of industry.
Representatives of the governors, including Saheed Olushola Balogun for Sanwo-Olu, Chief Fagbayi Olusesan for Abiodun, Chief Akeem Adesola for Makinde, and Otunba Dolamu Adeniyi for Oyebanji, all praised OPC and its leader, Iba Adams, for their efforts in safeguarding the region and preserving Yoruba heritage.
Governor Abiodun described the anniversary as symbolic and praised OPC for its role in protecting regional interests. Governor Sanwo-Olu acknowledged the group’s efforts in fostering unity and urged them to continue their good work. Governor Makinde lauded OPC as a pillar of support for his administration, while Governor Oyebanji commended the group’s contributions to security and urged further efforts.
In his address, Iba Adams, the National Coordinator of OPC, vowed that the organization would remain a leading force in Yoruba land and Nigeria. He outlined the group’s goals, which include advocating for Nigeria’s restructuring, protecting lives and property, promoting Yoruba culture, defending Yoruba interests, and engaging in cultural tourism, humanitarian services, and youth empowerment.
Adams emphasized that OPC would continue to grow and protect Yoruba interests against internal and external forces. He noted the organization’s resilience through challenging times, including military eras and police brutality, and highlighted its commitment to truth, justice, and fairness.
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On the topic of restructuring, Adams reiterated the need for it to address Nigeria’s structural imbalances and argued that regionalism, as reflected in the 1960/1963 constitutions, could enhance socio-economic progress and reduce federal burdens.
He expressed concern that without restructuring, Nigeria might slip further in global rankings and stressed the urgency of addressing these structural issues.
Adams also paid tribute to past and present governors, traditional rulers, and other supporters of OPC, acknowledging their contributions and welcoming distinguished guests who attended the anniversary celebration.
