The Pan-Yoruba socio-political group, Afenifere, has appointed Oba Oladipo Olaitan as its new leader.
This decision was announced in a communiqué issued after the group’s monthly general meeting, held at Isanya Ogbo in Ogun State, the hometown of its late leader, Pa Ayo Adebanjo.
The meeting was attended by delegates from the six South-West states, as well as representatives from Kogi, Kwara, and the Itsekiri community in Delta State.
According to the communiqué, Oba Olaitan will serve as Acting Leader until after the final burial of Pa Adebanjo, after which he will officially assume the role of substantive leader.
The communiqué was signed by Afenifere’s Secretary-General, Chief Sola Ebiseni, and National Publicity Secretary, Justice Faloye.
It stated:
“The meeting considered the recommendations of the National Caucus and approved the appointment of Oba Oladipo Olaitan as the new leader of Afenifere.”
Oba Olaitan, a lawyer called to the Nigerian Bar in 1971, has a long history in politics.
He served as Political Adviser to Governor Lateef Jakande and was a member of the Lagos State Executive Council from 1979 to 1983.
He was later elected as a Member of the House of Representatives and served as the leader of the Alliance for Democracy (AD) in the House from 1999 to 2003.
A longstanding member of Afenifere for over 45 years, Oba Olaitan has held several key positions, including National Financial Secretary under Chief Reuben Fasoranti and Deputy Leader under Chief Ayo Adebanjo.
In his acceptance speech, Oba Olaitan reaffirmed his dedication to Afenifere’s mission as a socio-political organisation and its advocacy for restructuring and true federalism. He also pledged to work towards strengthening the unity of the group.
During the meeting, Afenifere expressed deep concern over the deteriorating security situation in the country.
The group specifically addressed the case of Prince Eniola Ojajuni, whose kidnapping ordeal has been circulating on social media for nearly a week.
They urged the governments of Ondo and Kogi states—where the kidnapping reportedly occurred—as well as security agencies, to take immediate action to ensure his safe rescue.
Afenifere also paid tribute to its late leader, Pa Ayo Adebanjo, acknowledging his immense contributions to nation-building.
The group noted the widespread tributes pouring in from across Nigeria and beyond in honour of his legacy.
They extended their condolences to his children and immediate family, praising them for their grace and patience in receiving the numerous visitors who continue to visit his residences in Lekki, Lagos, and Isanya Ogbo, Ogun State.
Prominent figures present at the meeting included:
Senator Femi Okunrounmu
Senator Gbenga Kaka
Former Deputy Governor of Ogun State, Pekun Awobona
Chief Tola Mobolurin
Tokunbo Ajasin
Engr. Bayo Adenekan
Hon. Leke Mabinuori
Olayemi Olajuyinu
Olu Pessu
Chief Olusegun Olawoyin
The meeting concluded with a renewed commitment to Afenifere’s objectives and a call for swift government action on pressing security issues.
