The Worldwide President of the Yoruba Youth Assembly (YYA), Olarinde Thomas, has called on governors across Nigeria’s Southwest region to immortalise the late Yinka Odumakin, former National Publicity Secretary of Afenifere.
Hon. Olarinde made this appeal during the 5th Memorial Lecture held in honour of the late activist on April 2, 2026, at Airport Hotel Ikeja in Lagos.
In his address, he urged Nigerians—particularly the Yoruba people—to emulate the legacy of Odumakin, whom he described as a selfless leader who dedicated his entire life to advocating for the interests of the masses. According to him, the late Afenifere spokesman was deeply committed to the progress of the Yoruba race and contributed significantly to national discourse and development.
“Yinka Odumakin used his voice tirelessly in service to humanity,” Hon. Olarinde stated. “He stood firmly for justice, equity, and the advancement of both the Yoruba people and Nigeria as a whole.”
He further called on governors and key stakeholders in the Southwest to ensure that Odumakin’s name is immortalised in ways that will preserve his legacy for future generations.
The Assembly also commended his wife, Joe Odumakin, for her unwavering commitment to continuing the struggle for justice and human rights. She was praised for her role as a prominent women’s rights advocate and for establishing the Yinka Odumakin Foundation, which aims to sustain the ideals and values her late husband stood for.
Late Yinka Odumakin passed away on April 3, 2021.
Speakers at the memorial lecture reflected on his enduring contributions to humanity, noting that his courage, voice, and advocacy remain a source of inspiration to many. They emphasized that his life’s work continues to resonate across Nigeria and beyond, reinforcing the need to uphold the principles he championed.
The event concluded with a renewed call for unity, justice, and sustained advocacy in honour of a man widely regarded as one of the most vocal defenders of the people.
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