In a significant leadership development, the pan-Yoruba socio-cultural and political organization, Afenifere, has appointed lawyer and activist Dele Farotimi as its National Organising Secretary. The decision was ratified during the group’s general meeting held at the residence of its leader, Pa Ayo Adebanjo, in Isanya Ogbo, Ogun State, on Tuesday.
The appointment of Farotimi, a well-known human rights advocate, is seen as a strategic move by Afenifere to strengthen its organizational structure and advocacy efforts. His outspoken stance on governance, justice, and Yoruba interests has positioned him as a key figure in the socio-political landscape of southwestern Nigeria.
According to a communiqué released after the meeting and jointly signed by Deputy Leader Oba Oladipo Olaitan and National Publicity Secretary Justice Faloye, the decision was unanimously approved.
“The General Meeting considered and approved the appointment of Barrister Dele Farotimi as the National Organising Secretary of Afenifere,” the statement read.
Farotimi’s appointment comes on the heels of a legal dispute involving renowned legal luminary Aare Afe Babalola, who had sued him over alleged defamatory statements in his book, Nigeria and Its Criminal Justice System. The lawsuit, which led to Farotimi’s arraignment before an Ekiti State High Court, saw him granted N30 million bail.
However, in a surprising turn of events, Afe Babalola agreed to withdraw the lawsuit, and within 24 hours, Farotimi was officially appointed to his new role within Afenifere.
The meeting, presided over by Deputy Leader Oba Oladipo Olaitan, was attended by prominent figures from the six southwestern states, as well as Kogi and Kwara. Among those present were former Lagos State Deputy Governor, Senator Kofoworola Akerele; Secretary-General of Afenifere, Chief Sola Ebiseni; political strategist, Chief Akin Osuntokun; legal scholar, Professor Akin Onigbinde; and respected elder statesmen such as Elder Tola Mobolurin, Dr. Gbola Adetuji, and Olorogun Pop Ayo-Banjo.
Afenifere’s recent leadership moves reflect its commitment to repositioning itself as a formidable voice in Yoruba and national affairs. With Farotimi’s appointment, the group is expected to intensify its political engagement, grassroots mobilization, and advocacy for regional development.
As Afenifere strengthens its leadership framework, Dele Farotimi’s appointment signals a new phase in the organization’s strategic direction. Given his activist background and legal expertise, many will be watching closely to see how he navigates his new role in advancing Afenifere’s vision for Yoruba unity, justice, and national influence.
