The leadership of the National Association of Nigerian Traders (NANTS) has issued a firm response concerning the Oyo State chapter to claims from former and expelled members, emphasizing that only those recognized by the legitimate leadership of the association have any authority to speak on its behalf.
In a strongly worded statement, the NANTS leadership refuted the claims of non-members and expelled individuals seeking influence within the association. “Anyone wishing to discuss the NANTS Constitution must consult the original document or a certified copy held by a genuine and authentic leader of the association,” the statement declared. “There is no place for photocopies, and individuals who are not members of the association, or have been expelled, cannot forcefully impose themselves on us.”
The leadership further addressed allegations aimed at other associations, specifically the All Agricultural Supply Association, which is also a registered entity but is accused of lacking integrity. “Why don’t they stick with their own association?” the statement continued. “They have ruined their association with multiple court cases. NANTS is a disciplined and structured association, not for people like them.”
The accusations extend to political figures as well, with Rahamat Aderonke Adedoja, a controversial figure in Oyo State, being called out for her alleged opportunism. According to NANTS, Adedoja was offered a board appointment during Governor Seyi Makinde’s first term but left after six months, claiming dissatisfaction with the position. She then joined the aggrieved faction of the PDP before switching to the PRP in her bid to secure a federal representative ticket. The NANTS leadership also pointed out that during her short tenure in the Makinde administration, Adedoja attempted to take control of the office of State Woman Leader from Hon. Wule Ibitoye, the powerful Oyo State PDP Woman Leader, but failed.
“Rahamat Aderonke Adedoja, where is your market in Oyo State? Are you truly an achiever, or just a figure with a wasted lifestyle?” the statement queried.
Additionally, the leadership accused Alhaja Saraat Aduke Konibaje of attempting to use NANTS to further her controversial ambitions of becoming the Iyaloja General of Oyo State. The association claimed that Konibaje invited Adedoja to hijack NANTS in order to exploit its name for personal gain after being blocked by the state government from promoting her candidacy.
The leadership of NANTS made it clear that any attempt to manipulate the association for personal political benefit would not be tolerated. The requirements to operate a state chapter of NANTS are straightforward: a recognition letter from the headquarters, clarification of leadership from the national body, and possession of the original or a certified copy of the NANTS constitution and certificate. Without these, the leadership maintained, “Hon. Niyi Adebisi, the Honorable Commissioner for Commerce in Oyo State, has no role to play in this matter.”
In closing, the leadership reaffirmed its unwavering support for Mrs. Danjuma, who has led NANTS Oyo State since 2016. “Mrs. Danjuma is a true achiever and a leader par excellence. We have no issues with her leadership, and we remain fully committed to her vision,” the statement concluded.
Finally, the NANTS leadership turned its attention to the All Agricultural Supply Association, which they accused of mismanaging its resources and causing unnecessary strife. “If they managed their own association responsibly, they would not be struggling to hijack ours. We urge them to focus on their own association and stop wasting money on fruitless court cases,” the statement asserted.
As tensions continue to rise, the Oyo State NANTS leadership remains firm in its resolve to preserve the integrity and discipline of the association, rejecting any external interference or opportunistic political agendas.
