The Pan-Yoruba socio-political organization, Afenifere, has strongly criticized former President Olusegun Obasanjo for what they perceive as disrespect towards traditional rulers in Oyo State. This criticism stems from an incident in which Obasanjo ordered monarchs to stand up and sit down during a public event in Iseyin, Oyo State, alongside Governor Seyi Makinde.
In a communique issued at the conclusion of their meeting in Akure, Ondo State, Afenifere condemned Obasanjo’s behavior and demanded that he publicly apologize to the monarchs.
The communique, read by Mr. Jare Ajayi, the Publicity Secretary of Afenifere, at the residence of Afenifere leader Pa Reuben Fasoranti, expressed deep concern over the incident, stating that Yoruba culture holds great respect for traditional institutions, with monarchs being highly regarded as almost divine figures.
Afenifere emphasized the need to preserve the dignity of the Obaship institution in Yorubaland and called for an unequivocal public apology to the Obas (traditional rulers) from former President Olusegun Obasanjo. They also suggested adopting a practice where royal fathers are not required to stand up at public functions, similar to customs in the United Kingdom.
On the issues of insecurity and banditry, Afenifere urged the Federal Government and security agencies to take more decisive and proactive measures.
They emphasized the importance of engaging youths in productive activities to deter them from engaging in anti-social and criminal behavior. Furthermore, they called for swift and rigorous prosecution of individuals involved in banditry and terrorism, advocating for severe penalties for the perpetrators.
