On November 26, 2023, the Oba of Benin ignited a huge controversy about the early history of Lagos. He did so by making the claim that the Edo people of
Maxwell Adeleye, former Communications Manager for the ex-leader of the apex body of Yoruba self-determination struggle, Ilana Omo Oodua Worldwide, Prof Banji Akintoye, has accused the latter of blackmailing him for rejecting his proposal to leave the group. This was stated in a statement addressed to Professor Akintoye, alleging that he planned to taint his reputation and that of his former deputy, Wale Adeniran. Adeleye’s statement further alleged that Professor Akintoye was using the crisis happening in the group to pursue personal interest.