The Middle Belt Forum (MBF) has extended its heartfelt congratulations to Oba Oladipo Olaitan on his emergence as the new leader of Afenifere, the influential pan-Yoruba socio-cultural organization. The Forum’s President, Dr. Bittus Pogu, conveyed the message on behalf of the diverse ethnic nationalities of the Middle Belt, celebrating the peaceful and seamless transition within the Yoruba group.
In a statement signed by Luka Binniyat, the Forum’s spokesman, Dr. Pogu praised the orderly process through which Oba Olaitan was selected, describing it as a clear reflection of Afenifere’s enduring commitment to internal unity, consensus-building, and the preservation of its core values. He noted that such peaceful transitions further strengthen Afenifere’s credibility as a leading voice for the Yoruba people and the wider Nigerian polity.
Dr. Pogu highlighted Oba Oladipo Olaitan’s deep-rooted dedication to Afenifere, recalling his diligent service as Deputy Leader to the late Chief Ayo Adebanjo. Despite his standing as a respected royal father, Oba Olaitan never wavered in his commitment to the group’s ideals and the larger struggle for justice, democracy, and fairness in Nigeria, the statement added.
The MBF President expressed strong confidence in Oba Olaitan’s capacity to deepen the historic relationship between the Middle Belt Forum and the Southern Leadership Forum, particularly in advancing shared goals like leadership rotation, restructuring, and the push for a truly federal constitution that ensures equity, security, and prosperity for all Nigerians.
While congratulating Oba Olaitan, Dr. Pogu also paid glowing tribute to the late Chief Ayo Adebanjo, describing him as a selfless, principled leader whose relentless pursuit of justice and national progress left an indelible mark on Nigeria’s history. He emphasized that Adebanjo’s legacy of courage and integrity would continue to inspire both Afenifere and the Middle Belt Forum.
Dr. Pogu assured Oba Olaitan of the Middle Belt Forum’s unwavering friendship, cooperation, and solidarity as both groups pursue their shared vision for a more inclusive, productive, and democratic Nigeria. He expressed optimism that under Oba Olaitan’s leadership, Afenifere would remain steadfast in promoting the rights of the Yoruba nation and working for the overall good of Nigeria.
The statement concluded with a renewed commitment from the Middle Belt Forum to collaborate closely with Afenifere under Oba Olaitan’s leadership, reaffirming the strong partnership between the Middle Belt and Southern Nigeria in the ongoing effort to build a just, secure, and prosperous nation for all Nigerians.
Middle-Belt Times 