The leadership tussle rocking the Pan-Yoruba sociocultural organisation, Afenifere came to the fore again on Wednesday as the faction loyal to Pa Reuben Fasonranti dissociated itself from the appointment of Mr. Dele Farotimi as the Organising Secretary of the mainstream Yoruba group.
Maintaining that its leadership structure remained unchanged, the faction noted that only the Fasorani-led group remains authentic Afenifere.
Recall that the Chief Ayo Adebanjo-led Afenifere had at a meeting held in Ijebu-Igbo, Ogun State on Tuesday, appointed Farotimi as its Organising Secretary.
Reacting to Farotimi’s new role, the Organising Secretary of the Fasoranti-led faction said, “While we respect the democratic rights of individuals to organise and associate, the leadership of Pa. Fashoranti is the only legitimate and recognised Afenifere.”
Omolola, in a statement made available to LEADERSHIP in Akure, the Ondo State capital ieges the public to be aware of the distinction between the authentic Afenifere and any other groups that may claim the name for political purposes.
“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 Fashoranti.
“This body continues to uphold the core values and principles that have guided us since the formation of Afenifere, and we remain steadfast in our commitment to the welfare and progress of the Yoruba people and the entire nation.
“While we respect the democratic rights of individuals to organise and associate, the leadership of Pa. Fashoranti is the only legitimate and recognised Afenifere.
“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,” Omololu added.
He expressed further commitment of the foremost Yoruba organisation to collaborating with everyone who share these principles, irrespective of factional differences.
He stressed that the future of the South-West region and the country depends on the ability to remain united and focused on the issues that matter most to the people.
