Markets, shops shut as Yoruba nation agitators, others join protests in Ogun

Some Yoruba nation agitators and youths on Saturday joined June 12 protests in Abeokuta, Ijebu – Ode and other parts of Ogun State.

Our correspondent observed a handful  of protesters armed with #BuhariMustGo and #YorubaNation placards on the streets of Abeokuta.

However, major markets and shops were shut as traders and residents stayed back home for the fear of backlash.

A correspondent who visited Itoku Adire/Kampala market, Kuto, Sapon and Lafenwa, all in Abeokuta, observed empty environment as businesses were grounded.

A joint security team also embarked on a show of force around the state capital to curtail the activities of the protesters.

Correspondents also sighted a police helicopter hovering over the city.

Daily Trust reports that there was beehive of activities at MKO Abiola Stadium, Kuto, where the state government is marking the June 12 Democracy Day.

A coordinator of Oduduwa Nation agitators, Sola Kogbodoku said protest was meant to intimate the world that Yorubas are ready for secession.

She said “We are here for a peaceful protest to let the whole world know that we, Yorubas in the country called Nigeria, are ready for freedom. We are ready to self-determined our lives, what we do, how we do it and where we do it. This is a rally without fight, without war, without killing and without any atrocity.”

Another Yoruba nation agitator, Azeez Suleiman said, “We are here today to let everybody throughout the whole world know that Yoruba is a typical nation created by Almighty God. All our resources should not be taken away from us. The Yoruba are being treated like a slave on their father’s land which is not supposed to be.”