..Insist Pa Reuben Fasoranti remains legitimate leader, condemn appointment as “affront to Yoruba culture
The United Kingdom and United States chapters of the pan-Yoruba socio-political organisation, Afenifere, have firmly rejected the appointment of Oba Oladipo Olaitan as the factional leader of the group.
In a joint statement issued by their respective chairmen, Babatunde Shianaba (UK) and Dr. Durojaiye Akindutire (US), the diaspora chapters described the move as an affront to the principles and legacy of Afenifere.
Oba Olaitan, who served as deputy to the late Pa Ayo Adebanjo, was appointed as leader of a faction loyal to Adebanjo during a meeting held in Sanya Ogbo, Ijebu, Ogun State, on Tuesday. The appointment followed the passing of Chief Adebanjo, a prominent Afenifere leader, who died at the age of 97. However, the UK and US chapters have dismissed the decision, reiterating that Pa Reuben Fasoranti remains the legitimate leader of Afenifere.
In their statement, made available to journalists in Akure, Ondo State, on Saturday, the diaspora chapters condemned the appointment as a violation of Yoruba cultural values and Afenifere’s founding principles. “Afenifere remains a structured and principled organisation under the leadership of Pa Reuben Fasoranti, a revered elder statesman whose wisdom and guidance continue to shape the destiny of the Yoruba people,” the statement read.
The groups criticised the faction for what they described as “reckless political manoeuvring,” accusing them of exploiting Afenifere’s name for personal gain. “Those parading themselves as representatives of a so-called faction are nothing more than political opportunists and self-serving power traders. If they wish to establish a separate entity, they are at liberty to do so, but they must desist from exploiting Afenifere’s revered name,” the statement added.
The diaspora chapters also emphasised the importance of traditional rulers as custodians of peace and unity, urging Oba Olaitan to refrain from assuming a role that could sow discord within the organisation. “Traditional rulers are expected to promote harmony, not division, within respected socio-political structures,” they stated.
The statement concluded with a call for unity and a reaffirmation of Afenifere’s commitment to the welfare of the Yoruba people, advocating for justice, equity, and good governance.
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