Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has expressed his preference for Nigeria over the proposed Oodua Republic, despite his Yoruba heritage.
His comments come in response to recent actions by freedom fighter Sunday Adeyemo, also known as Igboho, who has petitioned the UK government regarding the establishment of a Yoruba nation. Igboho submitted this petition to UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer, urging consideration for the creation of a Yoruba state.
However, Obasanjo has distanced himself from the notion of a Yoruba nation.
The former president made his statements during a visit from a delegation of the League of Northern Democrats, led by Ibrahim Shekarau, a former governor of Kano State, at his home in Abeokuta, Ogun State.
Obasanjo highlighted that the regionalism practiced prior to Nigeria’s independence has contributed significantly to the country’s ongoing disunity.
He remarked, “It’s essential that we start prioritizing national interests. While you’ve named your group the League of Northern Democrats, I wish it could be called the National League of Democrats, as our regional identities should not divide us.”
He emphasized, “My birthplace should not hinder my identity as a Nigerian. Being Nigerian is far more significant than being part of the Oodua Republic.”
Obasanjo affirmed his pride in being Yoruba but insisted that his Nigerian identity should not conflict with his ethnic background.
“We must focus on selecting the best individuals for any position, regardless of their origins. It is crucial that we align our efforts effectively.”
