Afenifere, a prominent pan-Yoruba socio-political organization, has issued a clarion call to the All Progressives Congress Governors’ Forum, urging them to staunchly defend the national integrity of Nigeria. The organization expressed deep concern over what they perceive as calculated maneuvers by certain political actors aimed at undermining the cohesion of the Federal Republic and discrediting the administration of President Bola Tinubu, both domestically and internationally. These actions, often disguised as democratic dissent, are viewed by Afenifere as exceeding the boundaries of legitimate political opposition and constituting a detrimental attack on Nigeria’s global standing.
The organization’s primary grievance centers around the tendency of some political figures to utilize international platforms to disseminate negative narratives about Nigeria, purportedly under the pretext of advocacy or reform. Afenifere argues that this practice, far from advancing the collective good, serves to erode national pride and compromise Nigeria’s stature within the international community. They contend that airing domestic political grievances on foreign soil is neither wise nor patriotic, effectively tarnishing the image of the nation they claim to represent.
Afenifere, positioning itself as a non-partisan yet nationally conscious entity, reaffirms its unwavering commitment to the unity, progress, and sovereign dignity of Nigeria. They emphasize the gravity of the situation, particularly at a time marked by multifaceted challenges and strains on national cohesion. The organization believes that leadership, in such precarious times, must prioritize the preservation of the nation’s integrity. Remaining silent in the face of concerted defamation, they argue, is tantamount to complicity, effectively condoning the actions of those who seek to undermine the nation’s reputation.
The organization specifically commends Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu for his vocal defense of President Tinubu and the nation, setting an example they urge other political leaders to follow. They call upon the Progressive Governors Forum and the South-West Governors Forum to demonstrate leadership by speaking with a unified and resolute voice against these detrimental actions. Afenifere stresses that transient political calculations should not overshadow the paramount importance of national interest, emphasizing the significant stakes involved and the judgment of posterity for those who fail to uphold the dignity of the Republic.
Afenifere’s statement underscores the organization’s deep-seated concern about the potential repercussions of these actions on Nigeria’s international image and internal stability. Their call for unity and a robust defense of national integrity reflects a broader anxiety about the fragility of the Nigerian project in the face of political maneuvering. The emphasis on patriotism and the condemnation of airing internal disputes on international platforms highlights the organization’s belief in the importance of presenting a united front to the world, particularly during times of national challenge.
In essence, Afenifere’s message is a plea for responsible political conduct, prioritizing the nation’s well-being over personal ambitions and political point-scoring. It is a call for national unity and a reminder of the shared responsibility to protect the image and integrity of Nigeria, both domestically and internationally. The organization’s appeal to the conscience of political leaders, particularly governors, emphasizes the crucial role they play in shaping public discourse and safeguarding the nation’s reputation.
