Afenifere, the Pan Yoruba socio-political group, has revoked the positions of acting leader and deputy leader, presently occupied by Chief Ayo Adebanjo and Oba Oladipo Olaitan, respectively.

During a gathering at Pa Fasoranti’s residence in Akure, the Ondo State capital, the main Yoruba organization abolished the roles of acting leader and deputy leader. In their place, a 21-member elders’ committee was instituted to provide guidance to the group’s leader. In a statement presented by the national publicity secretary of the group, Comrade Jare Ajayi, Afenifere explained that this decision stemmed from recent developments causing division among the leaders of the group.

He mentioned that the proposal to eliminate the positions was initiated by Dr. J. Ibikunle and supported by Dr. Niyi Ikuomelo. The communique stated, “In light of recent events and the urgent necessity to reposition and rejuvenate Afenifere, the decision has been made to abolish the positions of acting leader and deputy leader.”“The responsibilities and authority of advising the Leader of Afenifere and Asiwaju Yoruba are now vested in the Afenifere Elders Caucus which is hereby constituted.”

The Elders Caucus comprises members such as Pa Fasoranti as the chairman, along with Adebanjo, Oba Olu Falae, Senator Cornelius Adebayo, Senator Femi Okunrounmu, and Basorun Seinde Arogbofa. Additional members of the Elders Caucus include Senator Kofo Bucknor Akerele, Archbishop Ayo Ladigbolu, Lt. Gen Alani Akinrinade, Maj Gen. Olu Bajowa, Prof Bolaji Akinyemi, Prof Banji Akintoye, Otunba Dr. S.A. J. Ibikunle, Chief Femi Aluko, Prince Alonge, Dr. Yomi Finnih, Prince Olusi, Hon Korede Duyile, Prof Ropo Sekoni, Hon Lekan Alabi, and Dr Kunle Olajide.

The group also conveyed its shock regarding the blast in Ibadan, the Oyo State capital, on Tuesday, January 14, 2024, and extended condolences to the government and people of the state over the unfortunate incident.