The pan-Yoruba socio-political organization, Afenifere, has strongly criticized former President Olusegun Obasanjo for his actions during a recent event where he ordered Yoruba monarchs to stand up and sit down in the presence of Governor Seyi Makinde.
In a communique issued at their monthly meeting in Akure, Ondo State, Afenifere demanded an unconditional apology from Obasanjo to the offended monarchs. The incident occurred during a road inauguration event in Iseyin, Oyo State, where Obasanjo gave the directive.
The communique, read by the association’s Publicity Secretary, Mr. Jare Ajayi, expressed their dismay at the incident, stating that Yorubas hold their traditional institutions, particularly the revered traditional rulers, in high esteem.
They stressed that these rulers have traditionally and spiritually attained the status of deities, known as ‘Igbakeji Orisa’ (Second in command to the gods).
Afenifere emphasized the need to respect and preserve the dignity of the Obaship institution in Yorubaland, urging Obasanjo to publicly apologize for his actions.
The association also recommended that royal fathers should not be required to stand up at public functions, citing practices in the United Kingdom and elsewhere.
On the issue of insecurity and banditry, Afenifere called upon the Federal Government and security agencies to take more decisive and proactive measures to address the security challenges in the country.
They proposed four approaches, including deploying anti-terrorism measures, motivating security personnel, engaging local leaders in affected areas, and creating employment opportunities for youths to deter them from engaging in anti-social activities.
Additionally, the group called for the swift prosecution of bandits and terrorists, ensuring they face severe consequences for their actions.
