Northern socio-political commentator Mahdi Shehu has affirmed that the demand for a Yoruba nation falls within the people’s legitimate rights, as protected by the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights.
Shehu made this statement in a post shared on X on Tuesday.
He highlighted that the Yoruba have maintained a consistent and ongoing call for self-determination dating back to the era of the late Chief Obafemi Awolowo.
He argued that no one should condemn their agitation, stressing that other regions should take a similar step if they so wish.
“Nobody should begrudge the Yoruba for the continuous and unbroken demand to go their separate way, far away from ‘parasites and unschooled lots,’ since the time of Pa Awolowo,” Mahdi wrote.
According to him, Article 20 of the African Charter confers on all peoples the right to existence and the inalienable right to self-determination.
“Understanding the words ‘unquestionable’ and ‘inalienable’ is valuable,” he explained.
“Inalienable simply means what is yours forever, which cannot be taken away from you. It is a fixed right that cannot be revoked by anybody.”
Shehu added that while the Yoruba had previously pursued self-determination through violence, their current approach appears to be through negotiation, largely because “Bola is in charge.”
“They have both political and economic powers in their hands, legs, fingers, head, neck, and shoulder,” he said.
Mahdi noted that if the Yoruba eventually succeed in their demand, they would have all they need, while others would have what they deserve ab initio.
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