By DAUD OLATUNJI
ABEOKUTA-The Yoruba Council of Elders (YCE) has explained that the rationale behind the construction of a Yoruba village in London was part of the efforts to ensure that, the language does no go into extinction for those in diaspora.
The Council’s Public Relations Officer in Diaspora, Gabriel Aramide said this weekend, in Abeokuta,that the body has concluded arrangements for the launch of the Village to serve as educational centre, where the language would be taught.
He further disclosed that, YCE had also decided to hold Yoruba Day Celebrations for their kinsmen in diaspora , who, according to him, were about 200 million.
Aramide, who was accompanied by YCE National Executive member, Kadree Adebisi and Ogun State Chairman, Muizi Omonayajo, said eminent traditional rulers in the region have given their support to the progamme.
According to him, the building of Yoruba village and the events were would be held so as to re-unite Yoruba sons anddaughters that live abroad.
“We are launching a Yoruba Village,a centre for learning of Yoruba!language and to also serve as the meeting point for Yoruba sons and daughters in some part of the diaspora. All Royal fathers and dignitaries will converge on the Village .
“To make visa essence possible, the council has contacted a firm of Solicitors in London, who are now in contact with the British Embassy,while the Yoruba Governors have also been contacted to send cultural troupe for performance.
Also speaking at the conference, the Council National Officer, Kadree Adebisi affirmed that, the programme was with the approval of the national headquarters.
He added that, the body had contacted the coordinator for the establishment of the diaspora chapters, which according to him has spread globally.
“The Council was established far back in 2001,with late Pa Alayande, Thompson and Bola Ige, while the mission and vision were for the welfare of the race, wherever they may beresidents.