The Organising Secretary of the pan-Yoruba socio-political group, Afenifere, Abagun Omololu, has declared that the group has no other national leader besides Pa Reuben Fasoranti.
Omololu made this known in a statement released on Wednesday while reacting to the appointment of human rights activist and lawyer, Dele Farotimi, as the National Organising Secretary of the Pa Ayo Adebanjo-led faction of the group.
Farotimi’s appointment was announced in a communiqué issued on Tuesday following the faction’s general meeting at Adebanjo’s residence in Isanya Ogbo, Ogun State.
However, Omololu insisted that Fasoranti remained the only authentic leader of Afenifere.
“I acknowledge the appointment of Dele Farotimi as the National Organising Secretary of the faction led by Pa Adebanjo. However, it is important to clarify that there is only one authentic Afenifere, which remains under the leadership of Pa Reuben Fasoranti.
“This body continues to uphold the core values and principles that have guided Afenifere since its formation, and we remain steadfast in our commitment to the welfare and progress of the Yoruba people and the entire nation,” he said.
Omololu maintained that while individuals have the right to associate freely, Fasoranti’s leadership remains the only legitimate and recognised authority within the group.
“It is imperative that the public is aware of the distinction between the authentic Afenifere and any other groups that may claim the name for political purposes.
“As we continue our work, our focus remains on unity, justice, and the advancement of democratic values. We are committed to collaborating with all those who share these principles, irrespective of factional differences. The future of our region and our country depends on our ability to remain united and focused on the issues that matter most to our people,” he added.
Afenifere appointed Adebanjo as acting leader in 2022, but in January 2024, the group annulled the office of acting leader, effectively removing him from the position.
Subsequently, the association formed a new body known as the Afenifere Elders Caucus, listing Adebanjo as one of its members.
Since then, Afenifere has been factionalised, with Fasoranti leading one group and Adebanjo heading the other. Both factions hold separate meetings and issue communiqués, further deepening the divide within the once-united Yoruba socio-political organisation.
