The Yoruba Socio-cultural group, Afenifere, has sent a letter to the Ogun State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC), denying the authenticity of a previous statement that was attributed to the organization.
A newspaper publication on Tuesday had featured a statement purportedly signed by Abagun Kole Omololu, who identified himself as the Organizing Secretary of Afenifere. In the statement, the Ogun APC was accused of insulting Otunba Gbenga Daniel, and a warning was issued to the party.
In response, Afenifere, through its Secretary General, Chief Sola Ebiseni, addressed a letter directly to the Assistant Publicity Secretary of the Ogun APC, clarifying the matter. The letter stated that the position of Organizing Secretary was vacant, making it impossible for such a letter to have originated from that office.
Furthermore, the statement emphasized that even if the office were occupied, it is not within its purview to speak on behalf of the organization. Afenifere adheres to the principle of neutrality and does not take sides or engage in political grandstanding.
“Regarding your letter dated 27th June 2023 regarding the alleged misunderstanding between Otunba Gbenga Daniel, former Governor of Ogun State and present Senator representing Ogun East Senatorial District, and His Excellency, Dapo Abiodun, Governor of the State, please be informed that Afenifere is not aware of any such misunderstanding between these two prominent Yoruba figures.
“In the event of such a situation, which is not uncommon, Afenifere follows established Yoruba practices for constructive intervention, which includes maintaining neutrality and not engaging in political grandstanding.
“The statement attributed to Afenifere was not issued by the organization. We are surprised that, based on your position, you may be unaware that the office of the National Organizing Secretary of Afenifere is vacant. The previous holder of the position was dismissed, and his membership was suspended due to unauthorized and embarrassing public statements, a fact that the press is also aware of.
“Moreover, it should be noted that it is not the responsibility of the National Organizing Secretary to speak on behalf of Afenifere in public communications,” the statement read.
