Oyo traders’ crisis deepens with alleged impersonation of leadership

The ongoing crisis within the Oyo State Chapter of the National Association of Nigerian Traders (NANTS) has taken another twist with an alleged impersonation of its leadership.

The Association, at a press conference addressed by its Secretary, Southwest, Chief Adegoke Apesin at the weekend in Ibadan said the activities of the alleged impostors are aimed at undermining the unity and peace within the association.

Apesin denounced the actions of certain individuals whom they accused of attempting to destabilize the association. Apesin described the culprits as “impersonators, conspirators, and busybodies” whose actions would soon be addressed in court.

He noted that the national body of NANTS had previously issued letters to clarify the situation, urging the public to recognize the authentic leadership of the association in Oyo State and warning against being misled by individuals with questionable intentions.

He presented the first of these letters, dated September 9, 2024, and signed by Dr. Ken Ukaoha, Esq., National President of NANTS, which was addressed to one Labake Ogundimola. The letter was read aloud during the event, making clear the association’s stance on the ongoing crisis.

Apesin, however, emphasized that the appointment of candidate for position of Southwest Coordinator is the sole duty and right of the National Headquarters of NANTS, which presently is occupied by Chief (Mrs.) Odunayo Danjuma.

Reacting to the ongoing situation, Chief Mrs. Odunayo Kayode Danjuma remained resolute, stating that no amount of intimidation or harassment would sway her from standing firm against impersonators and conspirators. “I understand them very well; they are on an unachievable mission. These are people with questionable characters, very unreliable and inconsistent,” she said.

Danjuma recounted how the same individuals who are now attempting to undermine her leadership had previously lobbied a particular leader to take up the position of Babaloja-General of Oyo State, only to later support another candidate in a contradictory move.

“I was never born to be a coward, neither would I compromise my stand. It’s a matter of time; the law will soon catch up with evildoers”.