Oba Oladipo Olaitan, the Deputy Leader of the Pan-Yoruba socio-cultural group, Afenifere, has been appointed as the acting leader of the organization following the passing of Chief Ayo Adebanjo.
His appointment was confirmed after a general meeting of Afenifere held at the late leader’s country home in Isanya Ogbo, Ogun State. According to the Secretary-General of Afenifere, Chief Sola Ebiseni, the group unanimously endorsed Oba Olaitan to serve in an acting capacity until after Adebanjo’s final burial rites.
“The meeting considered the recommendations of the National Caucus and approved the appointment of Oba Oladipo Olaitan as the new Leader of Afenifere,” Ebiseni stated. “Oba Olaitan will function as the leader in an acting capacity until after the final burial of Papa Ayo Adebanjo, when he will officially assume office as the substantive leader.”
Ebiseni highlighted Oba Olaitan’s long-standing commitment to the group, noting his decades of service. “He has been a member of Afenifere for over 45 years, holding various positions, including National Financial Secretary under Chief Reuben Fasoranti and Deputy Leader under Chief Ayo Adebanjo,” he said.
A seasoned politician and legal practitioner, Oba Olaitan was called to the Nigerian Bar in 1971. 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 to the House of Representatives, where he led the Alliance for Democracy (AD) caucus from 1999 to 2003.
In his acceptance speech, Oba Olaitan pledged to uphold Afenifere’s values and commitment to restructuring and true federalism. “I am honored to serve Afenifere in this capacity. We will continue to champion the cause of the Yoruba people and work towards a just and equitable Nigeria,” he assured.
During the meeting, members paid tribute to Chief Ayo Adebanjo, recognizing his significant contributions to nation-building and democracy. “The meeting commiserated with his family and commended them for their tireless engagement with visitors paying their respects in Lagos and Ogun State,” Ebiseni said.
Beyond leadership transition, Afenifere expressed concern over the deteriorating security situation in the country, particularly the case of Prince Eniola Ojajuni, who has been reportedly held by kidnappers.
The group urged the governments of Ondo and Kogi states, as well as security agencies, to ensure his immediate rescue.
The meeting was attended by prominent figures, including Senator Femi Okunrounmu, Senator Gbenga Kaka, Chief Tola Mobolurin, Tokunbo Ajasin, Engr. Bayo Adenekan, Hon. Leke Mabinuori, and Chief Olusegun Olawoyin.
