October 29, 2025
By Tobi Akinnubi
Leader of Afenifere Worldwide and Asiwaju of Yoruba, Chief Reuben Famuyide Fasoranti (CFR), has urged political leaders in the Southwest to rise above partisan politics and work together for the progress and unity of the Yoruba people.
Fasoranti made the call in his address titled “The Time to Renew Commitment to Pan-Yoruba Solidarity,” delivered on his behalf by Senator Femi Okurounmu at the Southwest Citizen–Government Engagement Summit held at The Dome, Akure, Ondo State.
The 99-year-old elder statesman said the Yoruba nation’s strength lies in unity, not political rivalry, warning that divisions driven by party loyalty have hindered regional development. He said, “Party politics must never again divide or weaken Yoruba solidarity. Development has no party; the welfare of our people must remain our central focus.”
He called for a return to the welfarist political ideology championed by Chief Obafemi Awolowo, stressing that the true Yoruba political identity is rooted in service to humanity, social justice, and equitable governance.
Fasoranti urged governors and ministers from the region to collaborate across party lines and ensure policies that advance education, healthcare, and economic empowerment for all citizens. He also challenged Southwest representatives at the federal level to advocate strongly for the region’s interests in national decision-making.
Addressing the youth, the Afenifere leader described them as “today’s stakeholders,” not just tomorrow’s leaders, urging them to embrace unity, innovation, and responsible engagement in politics.
He commended the summit’s focus on citizen–government engagement, describing it as a vital platform for accountability and inclusive governance.
Fasoranti concluded by appealing to all Yoruba sons and daughters to place development above politics and work collectively toward regional progress, noting that the Yoruba nation can only thrive through solidarity and shared commitment.
