Two international chapters of the pan-Yoruba socio-political group, Afenifere, have rejected the appointment of Oba Oladipo Olaitan as the group’s new leader.
The United Kingdom and United States chapters, in a joint statement on Saturday, insisted that Pa Reuben Fasorantiremains the rightful leader of Afenifere.
🔹 Why Are They Opposing Olaitan’s Appointment?
Oba Olaitan was named leader by a faction loyal to the late Pa Ayo Adebanjo during a meeting in Ogun State on Tuesday, just days after Adebanjo’s passing. However, the diaspora branches, led by Babatunde Shianaba (UK) and Dr. Durojaiye Akindutire (US), described the move as an affront to Afenifere’s structure and values.
Their Statement Reads:
- “Afenifere remains a structured and principled organisation under Pa Reuben Fasoranti, a revered elder statesman whose wisdom continues to shape the Yoruba people’s destiny.”
- “It is against Yoruba culture for younger individuals to undermine elders or seek to usurp authority.”
- “Those parading themselves as leaders of a faction of Afenifere are merely political opportunists.”
🔹 Call for Sanctions Against Olaitan
The diaspora groups urged Olaitan to step down, warning that traditional rulers should be custodians of peace, not instruments of division within respected Yoruba structures. They also called for disciplinary actions against those behind the disputed appointment.
This development highlights the growing rift within Afenifere, as different factions battle over the group’s leadership.
