The National Coordinator of the Oodua People’s Congress, OPC, Otunba Gani Adams, has been picked by the Alafin of Oyo as the 15th Aare Ona Kakanfo designate of Yorubaland.

The Aare Ona Kakanfo is the Generalissimo of the Yorubas, who led the Yoruba army to war in ancient times. The last person to occupy that position is the late MKO Abiola.

The Oyo monarch said his decision to pick Adams after Abiola’s death was based on his vision for the Yoruba nation.

Meanwhile some Yoruba leaders have congratulated the OPC boss saying he deserves the title. Afenifere chieftain, Chief Ayo Adebanjo, who congratulated Adams, described him as a true Yoruba son. Adebanjo, however, dismissed claims that people with the title do not end well, adding that it was time for the Yoruba nation to be united and support Adams.

Also, founder of the OPC, Dr. Frederick Fasehun, said the Alaafin of Oyo has the right to bestow the title on anyone, adding that “it is an Oyo title. The Alaafin has the right to give it to anybody. The Alaafin can give anybody, whether young or old, altruistic or otherwise. I congratulate him (Adams) and I hope he will behave true to his title.”

The Ogun State Governor, Senator Ibikunle Amosun, has described Gani Adams’ appointment as well deserved.

This was contained in a statement signed by the state Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Chief Adedayo Adeneye, on Monday in Abeokuta, a copy of which was made available to our correspondent.

The statement added that Adams being named the Generalissimo of Yorubaland should serve as a tonic for other Yoruba, who desire to uphold the core values of the race.