Afenifere Rejects Claims Of New Leader, Affirms Reuben Fasoranti’s Position.
The prominent Pan-Yoruba socio-cultural and socio-political group, Afenifere, has firmly dismissed rumours of a leadership change within its ranks, refuting claims that Oba Oladipo Olaitan has been appointed as its new leader. The organisation has reiterated that Chief Reuben Famuyide Fasoranti remains its recognised national leader, dispelling suggestions of a vacancy following the recent passing of Pa Ayo Adebanjo.
Speculation arose after a communiqué, reportedly issued after Afenifere’s monthly general meeting held at Isanya Ogbo in Ogun State, claimed that Oba Olaitan had been named the group’s new leader. The meeting was said to have drawn delegates from the six South West states, as well as parts of the North Central region, including Kogi and Kwara. These reports suggested that the appointment was a response to the leadership void left by Pa Adebanjo’s death.
However, Afenifere’s National Publicity Secretary, Comrade Jare Ajayi, swiftly debunked the claims in an exclusive interview with the Daily Post. “There is no vacuum in the leadership of Afenifere,” Ajayi stated emphatically. He pointed out that Chief Reuben Fasoranti, the organisation’s longstanding leader, is “hale and hearty” and continues to steer Afenifere with wisdom and strength. “To the glory of God, he is adroitly providing the requisite leadership,” Ajayi added.
The spokesman questioned the logic behind the alleged appointment, remarking, “In a situation where there is no vacuum, how do you talk of filling a vacancy that does not exist? A king is not appointed when the incumbent is still very much on the stool.” He stressed that the process outlined in the communiqué was inconsistent with Afenifere’s established traditions for selecting a leader. “The manner in which the one announced on Tuesday was done is alien to Afenifere tradition,” he explained.
Ajayi also took the opportunity to pay tribute to the late Chief Ayo Adebanjo, a revered figure within the organisation whose recent passing has left Afenifere in mourning. He emphasised that the group remains focused on honouring Adebanjo’s legacy rather than engaging in premature leadership transitions.
The clarification from Afenifere puts to rest days of swirling rumours and reaffirms Chief Fasoranti’s position as the group’s guiding light. As the organisation navigates this period of grief, it continues to uphold its commitment to the Yoruba nation and its values.
