By Achadu Gabriel, Kaduna
The President of the Middle Belt Forum of Nigeria, Dr. Bittus Pogu, has extended heartfelt congratulations to Oba Oladipo Olaitan on his emergence as the new leader of Afenifere, the prominent pan-Yoruba socio-cultural group. The congratulatory message was issued on behalf of the ethnic nationalities of the Middle Belt.
Dr. Pogu also praised the Afenifere family for the peaceful and seamless selection of Oba Olaitan, which he said reflects their commitment to unity and the preservation of the group’s core values.
In a statement released by the Forum’s spokesperson, Luka Binniyat, on Thursday, Dr. Pogu expressed confidence in Oba Olaitan’s leadership, noting that he would uphold the long-standing agreements of the Middle Belt and Southern Leadership Forum. These include the collective pursuit of leadership rotation and other vital matters, particularly the restructuring of Nigeria and the establishment of a new constitution.
“I have known Oba Oladipo Olaitan as a committed and dedicated member of Afenifere, serving diligently as the deputy to the late, great Chief Ayo Adebanjo, despite his esteemed position as a Royal Father,” Dr. Pogu remarked.
He added, “I am confident that under his leadership, he will continue to honor the agreements of the Middle Belt and Southern Leadership Forum, especially in our shared goal for a restructured Nigerian state and a constitution that guarantees a more productive, secure, free, and progressive nation, delivering on the aspirations of all its citizens.”
While the Middle Belt Forum mourns the passing of Chief Ayo Adebanjo, a principled and selfless leader whose contributions to Nigeria’s progress remain significant, Dr. Pogu expressed optimism that Oba Olaitan’s leadership would sustain Afenifere’s strong legacy of championing the well-being of the Yoruba nation and a better Nigeria.
“Congratulations once again, Kabiyesi. Be assured of the unwavering friendship, cooperation, and solidarity of the Middle Belt Forum as we continue this shared journey toward a better Nigeria,” Dr. Pogu concluded.
