* Says OPC is a banned organisation

By Olufemi Oni, Ilorin

The Oodua Progressive Care Initiative (OPCI) has kicked against the request by the Oodua People’s Congress (OPC) for recognition and involvement in national security efforts.

Addressing journalists on Saturday in Ilorin, the Kwara State capital, the National President of the OPCI, Dr. Maruff Olarewaju, said the demand is ridiculous, self-serving and fpes not align with the greater good of the nation, adding that the request is an affront to the Nigerian government.

Besides, Dr. Olarewaju stated that the OPC as an organisation was banned during the tenure of former President Olusegun Obasanjo.

He said: “It is well documented that the OPC was banned by the Obasanjo regime and labelled as a terrorist organisation globally. No amount of rebranding can change this fact. The OPC, led by Gani Adams, has a history of perpetrating violence and destruction in the Southwest region, resulting in loss of lives and property.

“Nigerians are not fooled by the OPC’s attempts to hide under the guise of insecurity and seek undue recognition. During President Jonathan’s administration, the OPC was empowered and awarded lucrative pipeline contracts worth billions of naira, yet they failed to deliver.

“The recent statement by Gani Adams, a factional leader of the outlawed Oodua People’s Congress (OPC), calling on the government to involve his organisation in national affairs at Osun Oshogbo Festival is quite revealing. It is evident that Mr. Adams’ plea for recognition and involvement is motivated by financial desperation rather than a genuine desire to contribute to the nation’s progress.

“Whenever Mr. Adams faces financial difficulties, he resorts to seeking assistance from those in positions of authority. His actions are driven by a singular focus on financial gain, rather than a commitment to any discernible policy or principle.

“It is imperative to recognise that Mr. Adams’ intentions are self-serving and do not align with the greater good of the nation. We must be cautious of his attempts to exploit situations for personal financial benefit and avoid legitimising his outlawed organisation.

“No amount of polish can change illegal to legal, up till today, OPC remains an illegal organisation in face of law and we are calling on all security agencies to beam the searching light on all illegal organisations and their activities in our dear county.

“We urge the Nigerian federal government and the State governments, especially the South West governors, to exercise caution and not legitimise illegal organisations like the OPC. We must prioritise the safety and well-being of our citizens and avoid compromising our national security.”