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Afenifere, the pan-Yoruba socio-political organisation, has announced the consolidation of its leadership under Kabiyesi Oba Oladipo Olaitan, describing the development as a step towards greater unity and the preservation of Yoruba interests.
The organisation said the leadership consolidation also recognised the contributions of its elder statesman, Pa Reuben Fasoranti, whose years of service, it noted, had helped shape its principles and political direction.
In a statement signed by its National Publicity Secretary, Prince Justice Faloye, and Secretary-General, Alade Rotimi-John, Afenifere said the development marked an important moment in its history and reaffirmed its commitment to promoting unity among the Yoruba people.
The organisation described Fasoranti as a custodian of its ideals, noting that he had sustained the legacies of prominent leaders, including Chief Obafemi Awolowo, Chief Adekunle Ajasin and Senator Abraham Adesanya.
According to the statement, Fasoranti remained committed to true federalism, equity, fairness and the advancement of the Yoruba people through periods of national uncertainty.
It added that his leadership had provided moral direction for the organisation and reinforced its commitment to justice and responsible governance.
Afenifere said the consolidation of its leadership under Olaitan was intended to sustain these principles while strengthening its capacity to promote the interests of the Yoruba nation within Nigeria.
The organisation described Olaitan as a leader who understood the need to balance regional advocacy with national cohesion.
It said his leadership experience and commitment to the organisation’s objectives positioned him to advance its interests while supporting a united Nigeria.
The statement also called on factions, political stakeholders and younger generations within the Yoruba nation to set aside their differences and work towards a common purpose.
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“Afenifere hereby issues a solemn clarion call to all factions, political actors, and upcoming generations within the Yoruba nation that the time for division is over,” the statement said.
It urged Yoruba people to reject bitterness and hostility, close ranks and support Olaitan’s leadership, adding that unity was essential to the community’s stability, prosperity and collective advancement.
The organisation further expressed hope that a united Yoruba front would strengthen efforts to address historical grievances and protect the people’s cultural heritage and socio-political interests.
On Olaitan’s responsibilities, Afenifere said his position as a traditional ruler required him to exercise restraint, wisdom and statesmanship in leading the organisation.
It urged him to remain focused on the collective interests of the people and resist political pressures that could undermine the organisation’s principles.
The statement said his leadership should be regarded as a responsibility to protect the organisation’s institutions and serve the wider Yoruba community rather than as a conventional political office.
Afenifere also reiterated its commitment to Nigeria’s stability, calling for a just and equitable country founded on fairness and restructuring.
It said the consolidation of its leadership offered an opportunity to strengthen internal cohesion and advance the organisation’s longstanding advocacy for a restructured Nigeria.
The organisation urged its members and supporters to work together under Olaitan’s leadership, stressing that a common front would be necessary to sustain its political relevance and promote the interests of the Yoruba people.
It added that preserving Fasoranti’s legacy would require continued commitment to the principles of unity, justice and equitable governance.
