Oba Olu Falae Named Chairman of Afenifere’s National Executive Committee
The Pan-Yoruba socio-political group, Afenifere, has named Oba Olu Falae—the former Secretary to the Government of the Federation and traditional ruler of Ilu-Abo in Akure North, Ondo State—as the new Chairman of its National Executive Committee.
This major announcement followed the group’s monthly gathering at the Akure residence of its national leader, Pa Reuben Fasoranti. During the meeting, members expressed concern about Nigeria’s security situation and other national challenges, reiterating their call for urgent restructuring of the country.
Afenifere’s National Publicity Secretary, Jare Ajayi, addressed journalists after the meeting, confirming that Oba Falae’s appointment was a strategic decision by Pa Fasoranti aimed at revitalizing the organization and realigning it with the core Yoruba agenda.
Ajayi noted that, “Oba Falae’s experience and stature are expected to reenergize Afenifere and drive its mission to promote Yoruba interests within Nigeria.”
The meeting’s communique emphasized that the nation’s persistent issues—ranging from economic hardship to insecurity—could be most effectively addressed through a thorough restructuring of the federal system. The group urged President Bola Tinubu and the National Assembly to prioritize this in the administration’s third year in office.
While congratulating President Tinubu on completing two years in office, Afenifere called on the government to take more decisive steps to address the rising cost of living, particularly the burden of food and transportation expenses.
The group also welcomed the federal government’s forestry guard initiative but advocated that its implementation be handled by state governments to support decentralization of security operations.
In addition, Afenifere expressed appreciation for the release of funds for the rehabilitation of the Ibadan-Ife-Ilesa Expressway, acknowledging it as a positive step.
The meeting had in attendance key figures from Yoruba-speaking states, including Kogi and Kwara, along with notable personalities such as Dr. Olusegun Mimiko and Chief Tokunbo Ajasin.
Upon accepting his new role, Oba Falae thanked Pa Fasoranti for the confidence placed in him and pledged to unify the organization. He emphasized his commitment to bridging divides within Afenifere, stating, “With God’s help and the support of our people, I will work to bring all factions together while Pa Fasoranti is still with us.”
Supporting this vision, the group’s National Organizing Secretary, Apagun Kole Omololu, also expressed confidence in Oba Falae’s ability to restore unity within the organization.
