The internal division within the Yoruba socio-political group, Afenifere, has taken a new turn as the Reuben Fasoranti-led faction publicly denounces support for a planned national protest, distancing itself from the statements made by Pa Ayo Adebanjo’s camp.
The protest, termed ’10 Days of Rage,’ is scheduled to begin on August 1, with the aim of highlighting the economic hardships faced by Nigerians.
In a statement released on Sunday, Abagun Kole Omololu, the National Organising Secretary of the Fasoranti faction, criticized the proposed protest, labeling it as “ill-conceived” and suggesting that it deviates from the principles of constructive engagement.
Omololu emphasised that while the right to protest is a fundamental aspect of democracy, the specific nature of this demonstration—marked by threats of violence and aggressive rhetoric—strays from the group’s ethos.
He urged citizens and organizations to reject the protest, particularly at a time when the government is attempting to address economic challenges.
Speaking, Faloye expressed support for the protest, attributing the economic crisis in Nigeria to the policies of President Bola Tinubu’s administration.
He argued that the protest was a necessary response to the government’s failure to alleviate the economic suffering of Nigerians.
The Fasoranti-led faction was quick to distance itself from Faloye’s remarks. Omololu stressed that Adebanjo is not the “authentic voice” of Afenifere, asserting that any statements from Adebanjo or his associates do not represent the official position of the group.
He reiterated that Pa Reuben Fasoranti remains the legitimate leader of Afenifere, with the group’s Council of Elders guiding its direction and policies.
The current dispute within Afenifere traces back to a split in 2022 when Pa Ayo Adebanjo was appointed as the acting leader following Fasoranti’s decision to step down due to age.
However, this appointment led to a schism within the group, exacerbated by differing political endorsements during the 2023 presidential elections.
The Adebanjo faction supported Peter Obi of the Labour Party, while Fasoranti’s group backed Bola Tinubu of the All Progressives Congress.
This divergence in political alignment further deepened the rift, leading to the eventual abolition of the acting leader and deputy acting leader roles within Afenifere.
Omololu’s statement also included a stern warning to the media, advising them to distinguish between Adebanjo’s personal views and the official stance of Afenifere.
He called for clarity in reporting, underscoring that any statements from Adebanjo or those claiming to represent Afenifere under his name should not be taken as representative of the group’s official position.
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