By Olanrewaju Agiri
A new socio-cultural and political movement, the Oduduwa Support Groups Organisation (OSGO), was officially inaugurated yesterday in Ibadan, with its leadership outlining an ambitious agenda centred on unity, political coordination, and strategic engagement for the Yoruba people.
Speaking at the inauguration and press conference, Co-Founder and Director General Otunba Olusola Orelaja described the organisation as “not a social club, but a movement” aimed at consolidating the collective strength of the Oduduwa people for developmental and political advancement.
Addressing an audience that included traditional rulers, community leaders, and stakeholders, Orelaja emphasized that the formation of OSGO was driven by necessity. According to him, the organisation seeks to provide structure, direction, and purpose to various support groups across the region.
“Today is not just about inauguration; it is about purpose. We are gathered for direction, decision, and declaration,” he said, stressing the need for a unified platform to enhance socio-cultural and political influence.
He noted that the Yoruba people have historically played a leading role in Nigeria’s development, citing their legacy of leadership, enterprise, and political awareness. However, he warned that without clear direction, such strengths could become fragmented, leading to disunity and a diminished impact on Nigeria’s socio-political landscape.
Quoting a Yoruba proverb, he added, “If we do not know where we are going, we may forget where we are coming from,” describing the organisation as a bridge between heritage and future aspirations.
Orelaja outlined the core mission of OSGO, which includes uniting all Oduduwa support groups under a single structure, promoting inclusiveness, advancing socio-political development, and positioning members for stronger participation in governance. He also stressed the group’s commitment to supporting leadership that aligns with its vision of progress.
In a significant political declaration, the organisation threw its weight behind President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, endorsing his re-election bid for 2027.
“Having critically examined the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, we recognise the courage, experience, and reforms already set in motion to reposition Nigeria,” Orelaja said. “Yes, the road is not easy—but no meaningful transformation is ever easy.”
He framed the endorsement as a strategic decision rooted in the need for continuity, stability, and sustained progress, both for the Yoruba people and the nation at large.
“The Oduduwa Support Groups Organisation hereby declares total and unwavering support for the re-election of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in 2027,” he announced.
Also speaking at the event was Baba Oba Vincent Bakare, who is a co-founder and national leader of the group; however, he declared a call to action, urging members to mobilise, leaders to provide guidance, and the wider Yoruba community to unite under a shared vision for the future.
In the same vein, Hon. Wale Fasade, the Chairman of the advisory council and also a co-founder of the group, in his keynote address with the theme “The Yoruba Nation in 21st Century Nigeria: Challenges, Opportunities and the Path Forward” stressed that the topic is not merely for discussion but a clarion call to action for every son and daughter of the Yoruba race.
“The launch of OSGO signals a new phase of organised political engagement among Yoruba support groups, with its leadership positioning the movement as a key player in shaping political discourse ahead of the 2027 general elections,” Fasade noted.
Other dignitaries that graced the ceremony include Dr Oyeyemi Fawekun; Alhaja Aminat Oparemi; Hon. Akinbode Joseph and Dr Raymond Osho, both patrons of the group; Amb. Princess Kosile Kolawole; Oyo State APC executives; and notable APC gubernatorial aspirants, among others.
Members of the national executive of OSGO present include Rev. Dr Nike Victor-Tade, the Deputy Director General; Hon. Mrs Aduke Mariam Ibrahim, the National Woman Leader of the group; Asiwaju Gboyega Idowu-Jai, the National Secretary; Chief Mrs Ayankoya, National Financial Secretary; Hon. Amida Funmilayo, National Treasurer; and Hon. Bello Rasheed, the National Youth Leader.
Also in attendance are the Oduduwa Southwest state coordinators, which include Lagos state coordinator Prophetess Princess Funmi Adekanbi, Ogun state coordinator Hon. Bose Adewale, Oyo State coordinator Comrade Ayuba Alawo, Osun State coordinator Osunrotimi Akanbi Tajudeen, Ekiti coordinator Otunba Ayodeji Adewale Famoroti and Ondo state coordinator Prince Korede Oluwatuyi.
