By Dayo Johnson, Rotimi Ojomoyela, Shina Abubakar, James Ogunnaike & Adeola Badru
Following the death of the National Leader of Pan Yoruba Socio-Political organisation, Afenifere, Pa Ayo Adebanjo, Yoruba elders, various leaders and other stakeholders have set an agenda for the new leadership of the group. They stressed the need to close ranks and speak with one voice saying it is time for the unity of their race.
Mr Lanre Ogunsuyi, Public Analyst and former Commissioner for Information and Civic Orientation, said “the departure of Chief Ayo Adebanjo from Afenifere marks a significant transition for the organization. Key tasks for the new leadership: include reuniting the factions within Afenifere. The organization has experienced divisions, and it’s essential to bring everyone together to speak with one voice. The new leadership must work to rebuild trust among members, stakeholders and the Yoruba community at large. This involves being transparent, accountable and inclusive in decision-making processes. The organization was founded on the principles of promoting Yoruba interests and contributing to Nigeria’s development. The new leadership should refocus on these core objectives and develop strategies to achieve them. Building alliances with other Yoruba groups and stakeholders is crucial. This collaboration will help forge a common front and amplify the voice of the Yoruba people.
•The cock must continue to crow louder
By Dayo Johnson, Rotimi Ojomoyela, Shina Abubakar, James Ogunnaike & Adeola Badru
Following the death of the National Leader of Pan Yoruba Socio-Political organisation, Afenifere, Pa Ayo Adebanjo, Yoruba elders, various leaders and other stakeholders have set an agenda for the new leadership of the group. They stressed the need to close ranks and speak with one voice saying it is time for the unity of their race.
Key tasks for the new leadership — Mr Lanre Ogunsuyi, Public Analyst
Mr Lanre Ogunsuyi, Public Analyst and former Commissioner for Information and Civic Orientation, said “the departure of Chief Ayo Adebanjo from Afenifere marks a significant transition for the organization. Key tasks for the new leadership: include reuniting the factions within Afenifere. The organization has experienced divisions, and it’s essential to bring everyone together to speak with one voice. The new leadership must work to rebuild trust among members, stakeholders and the Yoruba community at large. This involves being transparent, accountable and inclusive in decision-making processes. The organization was founded on the principles of promoting Yoruba interests and contributing to Nigeria’s development. The new leadership should refocus on these core objectives and develop strategies to achieve them. Building alliances with other Yoruba groups and stakeholders is crucial. This collaboration will help forge a common front and amplify the voice of the Yoruba people.
Other stakeholders expect the new leadership to be inclusive, recognizing the diversity within the Yoruba community and involving various groups in decision-making. Clear and regular communication is essential to keep stakeholders informed about Afenifere’s activities, plans, and challenges. The new leadership is expected to form strategic partnerships with other organizations, groups and individuals to advance Yoruba interests and promote Nigeria’s development. Stakeholders demand accountability and transparency in Afenifere’s operations, including financial management and decision-making processes.
By addressing these tasks and meeting the expectations of other Yoruba stakeholders, the new leadership of Afenifere can revitalize the organization and effectively promote the interests of the Yoruba people”.
It’s an opportunity to have an umbrella body — Amb. Farounbi
On his part, Ambassador Yemi Farounbi said, “There is an urgent need for the elite and leadership of Yoruba to begin to understand one another and to be able to work together. In a multi-ethnic, multi-lingual federation that we are, where there is an intense competition not just for power but also for distribution of opportunity, it is important for the Yoruba to at least be able to speak with one voice. With the factionalisation of Afenifere between Ayo Adebanjo and Fasoranti, Yoruba Council of Elders, almost becoming irrelevant, Yoruba Elders Council of Victor Taiwo, the OPC almost becoming voiceless, we are beginning to get to a situation where there is no particular organisation that can be named to speak for the interest of the Yoruba.
Therefore, in a multilingual society like this, Yoruba need an umbrella body that would cut across party, religions and economic classes and be able to speak and articulate the feelings of the Yoruba. I had thought that the Afenifere would use the demise of this great man (Ayo Adebanjo) as an opportunity to rally together, not only those of them who believe they are Afenifere, but believe that all of us are Afenifere. Even those who are never Awoists, who never met Awolowo but read about him, people who are not in politics, people in businesses, we ought to be able to put together an umbrella body that would be respected and speak for all of us in the interest of all of us.
I believe this is something we have always needed, like when we had Egbe Omo Oduduwa before it was split. And since then we have not been able to put together an umbrella body for all of us to depend on. I think this is an opportunity for the elders to begin on this assignment and we must also begin to realise that leadership may not be eldership but we can have a marriage of both in setting up this body”.
Afenifere stands firm, undivided, resolute in its purpose —.Abagun Kole Omololu National Organising secretary Afenifere
According to Abagun Omololu, “The passing of Chief Ayo Adebanjo is a solemn moment for Afenifere and the entire Yoruba nation. As we continue to mourn his demise, it is imperative to correct a prevailing misconception, Afenifere remains an indivisible and united body under the leadership of Pa Reuben Fasoranti. There is no “new leadership” of Afenifere, as Pa Fasoranti continues to serve as the leader of our revered socio-political organisation.
It is true that, in recent years, there was a difference in interpretation regarding the delegation of leadership responsibilities between Pa Fasoranti and Pa Adebanjo, his Acting leader. However, this was an internal matter, not indicative of division, but rather a reflection of Afenifere’s tradition of robust internal discourse. Let it be known that political opportunists seeking to exploit this moment to further their interests will not succeed.
Afenifere has weathered similar misunderstandings in the past, most notably during the era of Chief Bola Ige and each time, unity has prevailed. The core mission of Afenifere remains the advancement of Yoruba interests within the Nigerian federation. This mission supersedes any temporary disagreements, and all well-meaning Yoruba stakeholders must rally behind this collective vision. Unity, rather than discord, must define our engagement going forward. As we honour the legacy of Chief Adebanjo, we reaffirm our unwavering commitment to the ideals of justice, equity, and progress for the Yoruba people.
Afenifere stands firm, undivided, and resolute in its purpose”.
On who succeeds Pa Adebanjo, Omololu said that “Afenifere has never been bereft of astute and formidable leadership and while the passing of Pa Ayo Adebanjo is undeniably momentous, it does not engender a void in the organisation’s ideological or intellectual fortitude. As a socio-political movement firmly anchored in Chief Obafemi Awolowo’s progressive philosophy, Afenifere thrives on collective stewardship rather than individual dominance. Ideological movements do not wane with the departure of a singular figure; they persist through unwavering conviction and the enduring dedication of their adherents.
•The cock must continue to crow louder
By Dayo Johnson, Rotimi Ojomoyela, Shina Abubakar, James Ogunnaike & Adeola Badru
Following the death of the National Leader of Pan Yoruba Socio-Political organisation, Afenifere, Pa Ayo Adebanjo, Yoruba elders, various leaders and other stakeholders have set an agenda for the new leadership of the group. They stressed the need to close ranks and speak with one voice saying it is time for the unity of their race.
Key tasks for the new leadership — Mr Lanre Ogunsuyi, Public Analyst
Mr Lanre Ogunsuyi, Public Analyst and former Commissioner for Information and Civic Orientation, said “the departure of Chief Ayo Adebanjo from Afenifere marks a significant transition for the organization. Key tasks for the new leadership: include reuniting the factions within Afenifere. The organization has experienced divisions, and it’s essential to bring everyone together to speak with one voice. The new leadership must work to rebuild trust among members, stakeholders and the Yoruba community at large. This involves being transparent, accountable and inclusive in decision-making processes. The organization was founded on the principles of promoting Yoruba interests and contributing to Nigeria’s development. The new leadership should refocus on these core objectives and develop strategies to achieve them. Building alliances with other Yoruba groups and stakeholders is crucial. This collaboration will help forge a common front and amplify the voice of the Yoruba people.
Other stakeholders expect the new leadership to be inclusive, recognizing the diversity within the Yoruba community and involving various groups in decision-making. Clear and regular communication is essential to keep stakeholders informed about Afenifere’s activities, plans, and challenges. The new leadership is expected to form strategic partnerships with other organizations, groups and individuals to advance Yoruba interests and promote Nigeria’s development. Stakeholders demand accountability and transparency in Afenifere’s operations, including financial management and decision-making processes.
By addressing these tasks and meeting the expectations of other Yoruba stakeholders, the new leadership of Afenifere can revitalize the organization and effectively promote the interests of the Yoruba people”.
It’s an opportunity to have an umbrella body — Amb. Farounbi
On his part, Ambassador Yemi Farounbi said, “There is an urgent need for the elite and leadership of Yoruba to begin to understand one another and to be able to work together. In a multi-ethnic, multi-lingual federation that we are, where there is an intense competition not just for power but also for distribution of opportunity, it is important for the Yoruba to at least be able to speak with one voice. With the factionalisation of Afenifere between Ayo Adebanjo and Fasoranti, Yoruba Council of Elders, almost becoming irrelevant, Yoruba Elders Council of Victor Taiwo, the OPC almost becoming voiceless, we are beginning to get to a situation where there is no particular organisation that can be named to speak for the interest of the Yoruba.
Therefore, in a multilingual society like this, Yoruba need an umbrella body that would cut across party, religions and economic classes and be able to speak and articulate the feelings of the Yoruba. I had thought that the Afenifere would use the demise of this great man (Ayo Adebanjo) as an opportunity to rally together, not only those of them who believe they are Afenifere, but believe that all of us are Afenifere. Even those who are never Awoists, who never met Awolowo but read about him, people who are not in politics, people in businesses, we ought to be able to put together an umbrella body that would be respected and speak for all of us in the interest of all of us.
I believe this is something we have always needed, like when we had Egbe Omo Oduduwa before it was split. And since then we have not been able to put together an umbrella body for all of us to depend on. I think this is an opportunity for the elders to begin on this assignment and we must also begin to realise that leadership may not be eldership but we can have a marriage of both in setting up this body”.
Afenifere stands firm, undivided, resolute in its purpose —.Abagun Kole Omololu National Organising secretary Afenifere
According to Abagun Omololu, “The passing of Chief Ayo Adebanjo is a solemn moment for Afenifere and the entire Yoruba nation. As we continue to mourn his demise, it is imperative to correct a prevailing misconception, Afenifere remains an indivisible and united body under the leadership of Pa Reuben Fasoranti. There is no “new leadership” of Afenifere, as Pa Fasoranti continues to serve as the leader of our revered socio-political organisation.
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It is true that, in recent years, there was a difference in interpretation regarding the delegation of leadership responsibilities between Pa Fasoranti and Pa Adebanjo, his Acting leader. However, this was an internal matter, not indicative of division, but rather a reflection of Afenifere’s tradition of robust internal discourse. Let it be known that political opportunists seeking to exploit this moment to further their interests will not succeed.
Afenifere has weathered similar misunderstandings in the past, most notably during the era of Chief Bola Ige and each time, unity has prevailed. The core mission of Afenifere remains the advancement of Yoruba interests within the Nigerian federation. This mission supersedes any temporary disagreements, and all well-meaning Yoruba stakeholders must rally behind this collective vision. Unity, rather than discord, must define our engagement going forward. As we honour the legacy of Chief Adebanjo, we reaffirm our unwavering commitment to the ideals of justice, equity, and progress for the Yoruba people.
Afenifere stands firm, undivided, and resolute in its purpose”.
On who succeeds Pa Adebanjo, Omololu said that “Afenifere has never been bereft of astute and formidable leadership and while the passing of Pa Ayo Adebanjo is undeniably momentous, it does not engender a void in the organisation’s ideological or intellectual fortitude. As a socio-political movement firmly anchored in Chief Obafemi Awolowo’s progressive philosophy, Afenifere thrives on collective stewardship rather than individual dominance. Ideological movements do not wane with the departure of a singular figure; they persist through unwavering conviction and the enduring dedication of their adherents.
Throughout its history, Afenifere has navigated leadership transitions with remarkable resilience. Under the stewardship of Pa Adekunle Ajasin, ably complemented by Pa Abraham Adesanya, and later during Adesanya’s tenure, where Chief Bola Ige played a pivotal role, the movement remained resolute. Pa Adebanjo’s demise does not herald the twilight of the noble ideals for which Pa Awolowo stood; rather, it reinforces the imperative of sustained advocacy, ensuring Afenifere’s enduring influence in shaping Yoruba and national discourse”.
We must continue Adebanjo’s legacy of advocating for justice, equity and the rights of our people — Oladotun Hasaan
The President of Yoruba Council Worldwide, YCW, Aare Oladotun Hasaan said: “I feel a profound sense of loss with the departure of Chief Ayo Adebanjo, a stalwart leader whose wisdom and dedication to our cause have left an indelible mark on the Yoruba people. His passing is not just a moment of mourning; it is a call to action for the new leadership of Afenifere and all Yoruba stakeholders.
The tasks before the new leadership are monumental. We must rise to the occasion with unity and purpose. It is essential that we embrace Chief Adebanjo’s vision and continue his legacy of advocating for justice, equity and the rights of our people. The challenges we face are numerous; political marginalization, economic disparities and social injustices, but together, we can forge a path forward.
Expectations from our Yoruba stakeholders are clear: we must speak with one voice. This requires open dialogue, collaboration and a commitment to our shared identity and heritage. It is vital that we put aside our differences and work collectively to address the pressing issues affecting our communities. Our people look on us for leadership and it is our duty to ensure that their voices are heard. Let us come together, not just as leaders, but as a united front that champions the dreams and aspirations of the Yoruba nation. The time for action is now, and together, we can honour the legacy of Chief Ayo Adebanjo by creating a brighter future for all”.
The cock must continue to crow louder —The Convener, Yoruba Commitment Leaders, Otunba Onayemi
“Baba Ayo Adebanjo and Baba Fasoranti were brothers, two sides of a coin and undisputable leaders of Afenifere. There was a rift between the two but not within Afenifere. One has gloriously taken his exit by natural but inevitable means. Yet, Afenifere hasn’t taken its exit. It should be abundantly clear to us all that when all of us take our bows through death, Afenifere will survive all of us. After all,where are the founding fathers today? They are all gone to the great beyond.
Without mincing the words, the urgent task before Afenifere is to close ranks now, strengthen the Omoluabi ethos of the organization and sustain it. Anything contrary to this will be a ruse and a dangerous counter productive to the well being of Yoruba race everywhere in the world. The expectation of all Yoruba stakeholders is for Afenifere to continue to be a true and unadulterated symbol of the latent progress and the survivalist aspirations of the Yoruba people. The cock must continue to crow louder and effectively”
The leaders must close ranks now — Ajibulu
The Secretary, Ekiti Council of Elders, Mr Niyi Ajibulu, said that “the main focus of the Pan Yoruba Organization, Afenifere for now, following the demise of Pa Ayo Adebanjo should be how to reconcile the divisions within Afenifere. The Afenifere, all along has not been one and I think this is an opportunity for them to close ranks now. We have the Pa Fasoranti’s faction and Pa Adebanjo’s faction, though we made some efforts to reconcile them in the past but it was unsuccessful.
I’m not sure with the demise of Pa Adebanjo, the two factions are ready to work together as a team. But I think this is an opportunity for them now to unite and have a common front. Pa Adebanjo had been speaking truth to power for quite some time but people actually thought that his kind of politics may not be the best for this country. So I think that the best option is for them to close ranks and revive the spirit of the founding fathers of Afenifere and protect the interests of the Yoruba race by speaking with one voice”.
Source: Vanguard
