The Nigerians in the UK community has been thrown into crisis after its leader, Benjamin Kuti, known as Oluomo of Derby, refused to step down despite pressure from the group’s moderation team.
The team had asked him to resign as the Person with Significant Control of the group following what they described as ongoing concerns about his leadership. They made this known in a statement posted on X on Friday night.
“Because of some ongoing concerns and to protect the interest of the community, we advised Oluomo to step down from his position. But he refused,” the statement said.
Instead, Kuti sent a letter dated July 18, confirming that he would remain as PSC. He also gave his consent to appoint new directors and invited people to join his cabinet.
The moderation team said this action does not reflect the wish of the majority in the community. “We urge members to stay alert and focused,” the team said.
The PSC is a position under the UK law that gives an individual significant control over a company. The NIUK is registered as a private company with Companies House.
Kuti had resigned in February as NIUK president after he was accused of financial mismanagement. However, his decision to remain as PSC has reignited anger.
A member of the community, Ifedayo, suggested that NIUK should be restructured as a charitable trust managed by eight to ten trustees with equal powers.
Some members have continued to criticise Kuti on social media, with Tomori Simisola saying, “People referring to Oluomo as Abacha really need to apologise to Abacha at this point.”
Eleyi of Edinburgh also accused Kuti of acting like the stereotypical Nigerian politician who does not want to leave power.
The moderation team urged members to stay united and committed to accountability.
