OKUN AGITATION GAINS MOMENTUM AS COMMUNITY SEEKS INTEGRATION INTO SOUTHWEST

Yoruba-speaking Okun communities in Kogi State have renewed calls for integration into Nigeria’s Southwestern Nigeria, citing decades of marginalisation, insecurity, and lack of cultural alignment within the North Central state.

The renewed demand was articulated by Clara Monisola Tobaojo, a member of the Atunto Socio-cultural Foundation, during an interview on Frontline, a current affairs programme on Eagle 102.5 FM, Ilese-Ijebu, Ogun State.

According to Tobaojo, the agitation is part of a longstanding effort to reposition the Okun people within a region that aligns with their Yoruba heritage, language, and traditions.

“The aim is to ensure a sense of belonging and reduce marginalisation. We trace our roots to Ile-Ife, and being where we are now feels like being disconnected from our identity,” she said.

Tobaojo identified worsening insecurity, including banditry and displacement, as a major factor fueling the demand for integration.

She described the situation as distressing, noting that many residents have been forced out of their homes and livelihoods, creating widespread fear and instability across Okun-speaking areas.

“People are being uprooted from their homes and forced into difficult conditions. It is disheartening and unacceptable,” she said.

Beyond security, the group pointed to political exclusion and limited representation within Kogi State as key grievances.

Tobaojo noted that since the creation of the state, no Yoruba-speaking indigene has emerged as governor, a development she described as evidence of systemic marginalisation.

She also stressed the cultural disconnect between the Okun people and other dominant ethnic groups in the state, arguing that shared language and heritage are critical for development and cohesion.

The group disclosed that it has engaged stakeholders across multiple levels, including leaders in the Southwest, the National Assembly, and traditional institutions, to push its demands.

According to Tobaojo, formal proposals have already been submitted to relevant arms of government for consideration.

“We have taken our request to the legislature, judiciary, and the Presidency. The process is ongoing, and we are hopeful,” she said.

She added that traditional rulers, initially hesitant, are increasingly supportive due to the rising security challenges.

While the creation of an Okun State remains part of the long-term agenda, Tobaojo emphasized that integration into the Southwest predates the statehood demand.

“Our primary objective is proper regional alignment. Once that is achieved, state creation can follow to meet our developmental needs,” she explained.

Tobaojo also advocated broader reforms, including state policing and constitutional adjustments, to address security and governance challenges nationwide.

She expressed cautious optimism about ongoing discussions around decentralised policing, noting that localised security structures could improve response and accountability.

The Okun leader stressed that the movement remains peaceful and rooted in dialogue.

“This is not confrontational. It is a legitimate call for integration, representation, and protection,” she said.

Listeners who participated in the programme echoed concerns about equity, justice, and governance, linking the agitation to broader systemic challenges in Nigeria.

As discussions continue, the Okun people maintain that their demand is driven by the need for security, cultural identity, and political inclusion.

Tobaojo reiterated that aligning with the Southwest would provide a stronger sense of belonging and open opportunities for development and representation.