‘There’s only one authentic Afenifere’ — Fasoranti’s faction insists amid Dele Farotimi’s appointment as secretary

The Reuben Fasoranti-led faction of Afenifere says there is “only one authentic” pan-Yoruba socio-political organisation.

The group’s comment is coming on the heels of the appointment of Dele Farotimi, a human rights advocate, as the national organising secretary of Afenifere by the Ayo Adebanjo-led faction.

On Tuesday, the Ayo Adebanjo-led faction of Afenifere appointed Farotimi as the national organising secretary of the organisation—a position currently held by Kole Omololu in the Fasoranti faction.

However, in a statement on Wednesday, Omololu acknowledged Farotimi’s appointment but insisted that the Fasoranti-led faction remains the legitimate Afenifere.

“I acknowledge the appointment of Dele Farotimi as the national organising secretary of the faction led by Pa. Adebanjo,” the statement reads.

“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 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. Fasoranti 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. 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.”

In 2022, Adebanjo was appointed the acting leader of Afenifere to succeed Fasoranti.

However, shortly after the appointment, there was a division in the Yoruba socio-political group.

In the buildup to the 2023 elections, the Adebanjo-led faction of Afenifere endorsed Peter Obi, the presidential candidate of the Labour Party (LP), while Fasoranti’s group backed Bola Tinubu of the All Progressives Congress (APC).

In January, the association scrapped the roles of the acting leader and deputy acting leader.