Professor Wale Adeniran, the founder and chairman of the Yoruba self-determination movement organization Ilana Omo Oodua Worldwide, has resigned from his position as group leader due to allegations of fraud and embezzlement, awaiting the completion of the appropriate investigations.
Adeniran’s departure follows that of Professor Banji Akintoye, the group’s immediate prior leader, who departed the organization on Monday, December 5, 2022. Professor Adeniran became the new chairman as a result of Akintoye’s departure.
As a result of recent developments in the Yoruba self-determination struggle, Maxwell Adeleye, a former communication manager for the self-determination group, has also excused himself from the group.
Adeniran claimed in a video that was posted to YouTube yesterday that he stepped aside to allow a thorough inquiry into the fraud claim made against him.
The don urged anyone with information on him or who may have sent money to the group through him to come forward, produce a receipt as support of their claim, and inform the public.
To allow for a thorough investigation, Adeniran claimed he resigned from Ilana Omo Oodua Worldwide. He urged Yoruba elders to form a committee to carry out the task.
Adeniran and Akintoye’s resignations have been rejected by prominent group members and the Council chaired by High Chief Femi Afolabi, who claim that they are still recognized as the group’s leaders.
It was revealed at a briefing yesterday in Ibadan, Oyo State, where Afolabi said the group’s leadership had a meeting with the parties involved to discuss the situation.
He claimed that Prof. Akintoye’s leadership qualities help to validate and uphold his position as the group’s current head.
