Ola Akinwunmi
The Alliance for Yoruba Democratic Movement (AYDM), a prominent coalition of Pan Yoruba groups, has thrown its weight behind the newly elected Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Abimbola Owoade. In a statement, the coalition urged those opposing the new monarch to withdraw their court cases and embrace peace.
AYDM, which represents Yoruba interests across Nigeria and the West African coast, expressed confidence in Oba Owoade’s ability to meet the spiritual, physical, economic, and political aspirations of the Yoruba people worldwide. The coalition praised the new Alaafin’s integrity, education, and humility, highlighting his comprehensive program for transforming Yorubaland.
Notably, AYDM emphasized that the selection of Oba Owoade was guided by the timeless tradition of consulting Ifa divinity, a first in a long time. The coalition warned that those who continue to oppose the new Alaafin will face the wrath of the Yoruba Nation.
In a statement signed by its General Secretary, Popoola Ajayi, Secretary for Mobilisation, Chief Kunle Oshodi and Chief Rafiu Oriyomi, representing Yoruba community in Ivory Coast, the group said Alaafin Owoade is the best in the circumstances to meet the spiritual, physical, economic and political aspirations of all children of Oodua across the world.“We call on those who have gone to court to withdraw the cases. We call on Oyomesi to embrace peace and work with the new Alaafin. The AYDM as the coalition of Pan Yoruba groups has agreed to support the new Alaafin. We urge the opposition to his emergence to join hands to rebuild the floundering fortunes of Yoruba for the greatness of Africa,” AYDM said.The coalition, however, warned that those who wish to continue to oppose the new Alaafin will face the wrath of Yoruba Nation.“The new Alaafin is a man of integrity. He is highly educated in the traditions and heritage of the Yoruba people. He is humble, versatile on Yoruba matters, and has a comprehensive programme of transformation of Yorubaland for the good of humanity,” AYDM said.AYDM’s endorsement is significant, given its broad membership, which includes prominent groups such as the O’odua Nationalist Coalition (ONAC), Agbekoya Solidarity, and the Oodua Peoples Congress (OPC New Era). With this backing, Oba Owoade is poised to play a key role in promoting Yoruba interests and dignity, both locally and globally.