Spokesman of pan-Yoruba socio-political group, Afenifere, Yinka Odumakin, has died of complications from COVID-19.
The activist had reportedly been on ventilator at a treatment centre in Lagos.
Reports say that he had serious underlining conditions including diabetes, lung-related issues and a mild stroke first suffered a few years ago.
“He had lung surgery before he was put on a ventilator. His case took a turn for the worse last week, with doctors concluding he had few days left,” a source told said on Saturday.
Odumakin played a key role in the National Democratic Coalition (NADECO) that fought the regime of General Sani Abacha after the annulment of the June 12, 1993 election.
He was also one of the spokespersons of the Southern and Middle Belt Leaders’ Forum (SMBLF), the body representing ethnic nationalities in the South-West, South-South, South-East and the Middle Belt.
Odumakin, who was married to another activist, Dr. Joe Odumakin, has been one of the strongest critics of the present government.
He has consistently taken on the Muhammadu Buhari-led Federal Government over alleged impartiality and favouritism in appointment into various offices.
His voice was also very loud in condemning the activities of some killers in Yorubaland.
He recently warned the Federal Government against arresting Sunday Igboho who recently issued a quit notice to the Fulani herders in Ibarapa Oyo State and subsequently ejected the Sarkin Fulani in Igangan.
