The United Kingdom and United States chapters of the renowned pan-Yoruba socio-cultural organization, Afenifere, have firmly rejected Oba Oladipo Olaitan’s claim to the leadership of the revered group. In a joint statement, Durojaiye Akindutire, Chairman of Afenifere in the USA, and Babatunde Shianaba, Chairman of the UK chapter, reaffirmed Pa Reuben Fasoranti as the legitimate and authentic leader of Afenifere.
This declaration comes in response to a recent statement by a faction led by the late Chief Ayo Adebanjo, which had declared Oba Olaitan as the new leader. According to Akindutire and Shianaba, this move is not only misleading but also an affront to the longstanding dignity and authority of Afenifere.
The duo emphasized that Afenifere has long stood as a cornerstone for Yoruba socio-political progress, its leadership founded on respect for tradition, elders, and established structures. They underscored that Pa Reuben Fasoranti, a distinguished elder statesman, continues to lead the organization with unmatched wisdom, shaping the future of the Yoruba people.
“It is deeply against Yoruba customs to undermine elders or attempt to usurp the leadership of respected figures,” the statement read. “Those claiming to represent a faction of Afenifere are, in reality, political opportunists, driven by personal ambitions rather than the welfare of the Yoruba people.”
They further stated that anyone wishing to form an alternative organization is free to do so but should refrain from using Afenifere’s esteemed name to further their own agendas. “Afenifere’s mission has always been rooted in advancing the well-being of the Yoruba people, advocating for justice, equity, and good governance. To claim otherwise, while contradicting the very principles of our founding, is simply absurd.”
Akindutire and Shianaba called for a return to the noble history and values of Afenifere, urging those involved in these political machinations to focus on the true essence of the organization, rather than engaging in divisive and reckless politicking.
