Tag: Adebanjo

The President General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide, Senator John Azuta Mbata, has expressed his deep condolences over the transition of the esteemed leader of Afenifere, Chief Ayo Adebanjo. 

He also conveyed his commiserations on behalf of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide to Pa Adebanjo’s beloved family, especially his amiable wife, Chief Christy Ayo Adebanjo, the Yoruba nation and his admirers all over the world. 

In a statement on Monday by the organisation’s publicity secretary, Dr. Ezechi Chukwu, Ohanaeze Ndigbo described Chief Adebanjo who passed away on February 14, 2025 at age of 96 as a charismatic leader, revered nationalist, and reputable statesman of impeccable character.

The statement  reads: “Chief Ayo Adebanjo meant different things to different people. He was a charismatic leader, revered nationalist and reputable statesman of impeccable character. 

“In the course of his political career and social interactions, Pa Adebanjo left a legendary imprint as an icon of equity, fairness and justice, devoid of self- seeking considerstions Though we mourn his painful exit, we however celebrate him as a quintessential model of true nationalism and consummate statesmanship.

Read Also: Osinbajo, Anyaoku, Adeboye, Obi, others at Adebanjo’s house

“As the leader of the foremost pan Yoruba group ,Afenifere, he was emblematic of rule of law, social justice and equity in national issues. In the Sounthern and Middle Belt Leaders’ Forum which he co-founded, he seized every opportunity to advocate for an inclusive national political leadership and bridging of geopolitical differences.

“History will record Chief Adebanjo as a leader who had impeccable track record of progressive principles and values. His consistency on ethical precepts were always axiomatic and unadulterated, not withstanding the ethical dilemma.

“For Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide and Igbo nation by extension, Pa Adebanjo was a brother who fought for an egalitarian Nigeria and perennially identified with the authentic struggles of our people. We recall with nostalgia, his exceptionally courageous struggle for Igbo presidency for the sake of justice, equity and fairness. In him, we had a Big Brother and ally in virtue, fairplay, common good and shared values. 

“No doubt, Nigeria has lost a rare gem who was representative of the ideals of his generation. We are however optimistic that the hallmark of Chief Adebanjo’s school of thought and fortrighness would transcend generations. 

“Senator John Azuta Mbata’s led Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide continues to remain sensitive to the plight of Pa Adebanjo’s family, while praying that all efforts are made to sustain his monumental legacies.”

Tributes have continued to pour in, with prominent Nigerians eulogising the late elder statesman and Afenifere leader, Pa Ayo Adebanjo, who died in Lagos at the weekend. He was 96. YINKA ADENIRAN (Ibadan); FRANK IKPEFAN (Abuja); and EMMANUEL BADEJO (Lagos) report

An exanple of dedication to nation building, says Osinbajo

The immediate past Vice President, Professor Yemi Osinbajo says the late Pa Adebanjo was an example of dedication to nation-building.

Osinbajo, who paid a condolence visit to the family yesterday in Lagos, said the late elder statesman was at the forefront of everything significant, progressive political and social enterprise before and since independence.

“Papa had been at the forefront of significant, progressive political and social enterprise, before and since independence. His life is an example of exemplary service and dedication to nation-building,” Osinbajo wrote in the condolence register on Sunday.

He said the late Afenifere chieftain boldly spoke his views and championed regional and national causes.

Obi: he lived a life of sacrifice, service, sincerity

The presidential candidate of the Labour Party (LP) in the last general election, Mr. Peter Obi says Nigeria needs more people who will sacrifice for the good of the country.

Obi, former governor of Anambra state, made the remark yesterday in Lagos during a condolence visit to the family of the deceased.

In his tribute, Obi, who got the backing of the deceased during the last general election, said the late Adebanjo lived a life of sacrifice, service, sincerity and simplicity. He described the passing of Adebanjo as a huge loss to the nation.

He added: “Baba’s passing was a huge loss to the nation; it’s a very devastating loss. However, as I’ve always said, he was one of those who fearlessly and courageously fought for justice, equity, fairness, and a better Nigeria. And most importantly, he remained consistent till the end.

“In this country, people easily get compromised or become transactions. But, Pa Adebanjo was exceptional. He lived a life of service, sacrifice, simplicity and sincerity. We wish we have a replacement for him; people who will stand for the truth, and nothing but the truth.”

He urged Nigerians to imbibe the virtue of sacrifice, which Adebanjo exemplified, adding: “This country needs people that will sacrifice for their country; people that will stand for a country of justice, a country of equity, a country where there’s care for the poor, vulnerable, and everybody can live and be proud of.”

Alaafin mourns ‘quintessential statesman’

The Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Akeem Abimbola Owoade, has described the late leader of the pan-Yoruba socio-cultural group, the Afenifere as “an eminently quintessential elder Statesman whose life and times could withstand the tests of time.”

Oba Owoade, in a statement signed by a member of his media team, Bode Durojaiye, said Adebanjo was more than an ethnic figure.

The royal father stated that the deceased was a crusader of Yoruba ideals, and a leader with a sense of fairness, justice, unity, peace and stability.

The statement partly reads, “The Titan of Yorubaland, hereby joins the entire Yoruba race and all unrepentant advocates of justice, democracy, and good governance in celebrating the passing away of a de-tribalised elder statesman who died at the ripe age of 96.

The statement reads: “In a world often swayed by convenience and compromise, there are individuals who stand tall, rooted in principles that guide their every action. The Alaafin of Oyo does not mourn but rather celebrates the laudable impact of a man of principles, Pa Ayo Adebanjo, who was not just a rarity; but also a force of change, inspiring others to pursue lives of purpose and authenticity.

“His unwavering moral compass did not only define him but uplifted those around him. At the heart of this principled man’s journey lies an unshakable foundation of core values. Honesty, respect, and fairness are not just words in his vocabulary—they are the pillars of his existence.

 “Pa Adebanjo believed that integrity is non-negotiable, even in adversity. Pa Ayo Adebanjo cultivated a reputation for being truthful and dependable. When others sought shortcuts, he chose the harder but more honest path. His steadfast adherence to principles earned him trust and respect, making him a role model in the country, as he lived and fought for democracy, justice, and the welfare of the downtrodden.

“Death is inevitable. There are no guarantees in life and we’ll never know for certain when we’ll truly die. One good attitude to practice is living our lives every day as it is our last. Don’t let us take everything for granted and don’t live in fear of death. Let us use death as a reminder that we should not waste our lives.

“Let us treasure the moments, every conversation, and experience we have with people. We should live for now and not in the past and the uncertain future.

“His Imperial Majesty, Iku Baba Yeye celebrates Pa Adebanjo’s unalloyed legacy, praying that the indelible imprints he upheld will continue to guide and inspire both our present and future leaders to embrace the values of truth, justice, and unity. May his soul rest in perfect peace.”

Read Also: Adebanjo: Life and times of an irrepressible Awoist

Ngige salutes ‘social crusader’

Former Minister of Labour and Employment, Senator Chris Ngige, has expressed his condolence to the family of the late elder statesman.

The former Anambra State governor described his passing “as an irreplaceable and monumental loss to the nation”.

In a statement, Ngige said Pa Adebanjo was a man of many parts who lived and died an unapologetic and unrepentant Awoist and social crusader, a firm believer in the progressive social welfarist ideas of the sage, Chief Obafemi Awolowo, targeted at producing practical social progress for the people and society at large.

The former Senator who represented Anambra Central District described the deceased as a high-calibre nationalist, politician, activist, federalist, defender of democracy, social crusader and patriot, who devoted his lifetime to promoting a peaceful, united and progressive Nigeria, built on fairness, justice and equity.

He recalled that Pa Adebanjo started political activism as a member of the Zikist movement before aligning with Chief Obafemi Awolowo in the Action Group (AG), which dominated the politics of the Western Region in the First Republic, saying that Adebanjo mixed some aspects of Zikism with a dose of Awoism in his politics.

Ngige said: “Pa Adebanjo chose to live an honourable and incorruptible life and was not moved by material acquisitions, just like many other politicians of that era, unlike what is obtainable today in the country.

“Alongside Chief Awolowo, he suffered serious political persecution in the First Republic, which made him go on exile to Ghana with late S.G. Ikoku, but was not cowed. Rather, the ordeal toughened him and strengthened his resolve to fight for whatever he believed in, the topmost of which is a peaceful, prosperous, and united Nigeria based on federalism, where no one, group or section of the country is oppressed, suppressed or marginalised.”

Speaking on his first personal encounter with Pa Adebanjo, Ngige said: “I first met and became close to him in 1994 during the NADECO struggles when as the President-General of Aka Ikenga (Igbo think tank group) in Lagos, we hosted some NADECO chieftains led by him to meet with our political committee. In that meeting, he was firm and asserted that Chief MKO Abiola, having won the June 12, 1993 presidential election, must be allowed to govern Nigeria as the President.

“He also told the meeting that he would have supported an Okeke, Ibrahim, Shettima or Okon who won the election, to claim his mandate based on justice and fairness. He said that allowing the annulment to stand would sound a death knell to the future of democracy in Nigeria.

“Pa Adebanjo remained resolute and unwavering in the NADECO struggle despite obvious threats to the lives of June 12 crusaders by the Abacha military junta. Alongside others, he fought until the restoration of democracy in Nigeria in 1999.”

Ngige recalled that during the 2023 general election, Chief Adebanjo wearing his courageous and truthful garb, not only said it was the turn of the Southeast to produce the President but openly campaigned for an opposition presidential candidate of Igbo extraction from the region, against a fellow Yoruba man from the South West, running on the platform of the ruling APC party.

The former Minister said it is only a man of the late Adebanjo’s mettle that can say or do such in today’s Nigeria, where truth is now a very rare commodity.

Ngige noted that the position taken by “this heavyweight political gladiator was borne out of his belief that for peace and unity to thrive in Nigeria, there must be equity, fairness and justice, which is the skeleton of the body of Afenifere”.

Huge loss to Southwest, says Oduyoye

Former Alliance for Democracy (AD) Whip in the House of Representatives, Babatunde Oduyoye described the death of Adebanjo as a huge loss to the Southwest and Nigeria.

Oduyoye said the late Afenifere leader made indelible marks on the sands of time in his struggles for Yoruba emancipation, true federalism and a better Nigeria, stating that the vacuum left by his death will be difficult to fill.

The former two-term member of the House of Representatives gave this indication yesterday in Lagos while expressing his condolences to the family of the deceased.

He said: “As it is known that all good plays must end, our Leader and Father, Pa Ayo Adebanjo has exited the earthly stage after making an unforgettable mark on this side of the divide.

“Baba was a fearless and courageous leader. An outstanding nationalist, he gave his all in the struggle for a better Nigeria and a Yorubaland that is not marginalised or relegated. At a point, Baba’s voice was the loudest in the agitation for true federalism and a Nigeria that would work for all Nigerians. He was the Awoist who lived true to type and stayed committed to the end.

“Good night, Baba.”

He was a principled politician, an irrepressible activist, a progressive to the core and an elder statesman bubbling with courage.

From 1951, when he put his hands on the plough, he never looked back. He was always on the firing line, speaking truth, or what he considered as the truth, to power, without fear and compromise.

Vocal, articulate, brilliant, and combative, he was full of confidence, resilience and uncanny energy. He was an advocate of true federalism and propagator of the evergreen slogan of ‘Freedom for All, Life More Abundant.’

On his fight for the enthronement of federalism, he once said:” I believe in the philosophy of social democracy and the fact that this country can only be ruled peacefully under a true federal system of government. That has been the reason for the fight all along.”

Adebanjo also believed that restructuring was non-negotiable. In his view, there must be a basis for a peaceful co-existence, adding that the terms must be collectively agreed upon by the component units.

To the elder statesman, Nigerian unity is negotiable.

He stressed: “Anybody who says that Nigeria’s unity is not negotiable is talking nonsense. We are already united as a country. Restructuring is not separation. What we are saying is that for us to be together, it must be on a condition acceptable to us all. This was the condition at independence as agreed to by Ahmadu Bello, Awolowo and Azikiwe. Why is it difficult for the government to go back to the old constitution?

“If the government is interested in keeping the country, it should simply go back to the 1963 constitution. Under that constitution, governance was competitive. That was when Awolowo built the Liberty Stadium, Sardauna built the Ahmadu Bello Stadium. Awolowo built the University Ife, Ahmadu Bello built the Ahmadu Bello University, Azikiwe built the University of Nigeria. Every region worked for itself.”

But yesterday, Chief Ayo Adebanjo, a chieftain of the National Democratic Coalition (NADECO), bade fare to activism, politics, controversy and other worldly pursuits. At 96, he went the way of all mortals, 38 years after the demise of his beloved leader, Chief Obafemi Awolowo, and living 18 years above the 78 years allotted to Awo by God. His own father was above 100 years when he died.

He was a journalist, lawyer and deputy leader of the pan-Yoruba socio-political group, Afenifere. He left behind a struggling country that has not attained a true federal structure and a divided Yoruba mouthpiece which he lacked the capacity to unite. The Awoist left behind a peaceful nuclear family. But, he also left behind many unfinished assignments in politics.

Although he was in politics for 76 years, there is no record to show that he ever stood for an election. Neither was he at any point in time appointed as a member of any state or federal executive council. He derived contentment in being referred to as an associate of the sage, Awolowo ,and a fighter for democracy.

Not all members of the progressive bloc agreed with his latter-day style of politics at the twilight of life, particularly his romance, not with the conservative Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) per se, but with some selected chieftains of the opposition party during critical electioneering.

Criticism also trailed his support for the Labour Party (LP) presidential candidate in the 2023 presidential election, Peter Obi, despite being a Yoruba leader, and when a fellow Yoruba was on the ballot. But, he maintained that he supported Obi in furtherance of his push for power shift to the Southeast in the spirit of equity, fairness and justice.

Adebanjo was born in Ijebu Ogbo in Odogbolu Local Government Area of Ogun State on April 10, 1928.  He started his education at Saint Saviours Primary School, Elegbaata in Lagos, between 1934 and 1935. He proceeded to Holy Trinity School, Ebute Ero in 1937. He was there till 1941 when he proceeded to Cathedral School in Lagos where he was till 1943.

Adebanjo worked in the Ministry of Health in Lagos briefly. A rebel, his appointment was terminated for being rude to an expatriate after a demonstration for self-government. He later worked briefly at an Ikorodu trading company owned by the late Chief Sule Gbadamosi.

Read Also: Adebanjo: Ngige mourns late Afenifere leader, describes him as a social crusader

Like the vibrant young men of the period, Adebanjo saw Dr. Nnamidi Azikiwe as an idol. He was a notable and strong nationalist who fought against Btitish rule. But,he later gravitated to Awo due to his realistic appraisal of the emerging country. While Zik tended to favour unitary system, Awo was an exponent of federalism, whose book, ‘Path to Nigeria’s Freedom’,published in 1947, explained the justification for the federal principle in a highly heterogeneous country. Besides, Zik’s aloofness to the plight of the Zikist Movement, whose activities compounded the 1945 labour strike, infuriated many young activists.

Besides, the hostility of Zik, leader of Ibo Union, and his newspaper towards the Egbe Omo Oduduwa and certain Yoruba leaders never went down well with his admirers.

Adebanjo recalled: “As a Zikist, 9I was buying the West African Pilot when I was in Standard Five. In fact, it was my copy that my teacher would read. We were committed to reading Dr. Azikiwe’s column, as well as that of the late Williams. But when Chief Obafemi Awolowo came and preached federalism, I, like many others, were convinced; that was how I joined the Action group.

“Before then, we had started the Egbe Omo Oodua in Lagos, and we had won an area council. That was when Oba Adele (Mosendiku Adeniji) contested an election as mayor. But instead of making him the chairman of the council, they used Olorunnimbe to spite him because he was not in a democratic party.”

Adebanjo, a student of current affairs, became a reporter with The Tribune under the late Olabisi Onabanjo of Ayekooto fame. As a judicial reporter he met the legal giants -Rotimi Williams, Arthur Prest, Bode Thomas and Remi Fani-Kayode.

From journalism, he was recruited into the Action Group (AG) as pioneer Organising Secretary, along with Chief Richard Babalola. He held the position from 1947 to 1953 when he went to the United Kingdom to read Law.

“People like Chief Awolowo, Gbadamosi, Chief Bode Thomas and Doherty contributed money to support me.  They raised 600 pounds for me and I had saved about 700 pounds. With that, I bought a property in London as a student. It was from the rent that I financed myself for the study for two and half years. In addition to this, I usually did a holiday job in Unilever, through the help of Chief Awolowo. I got to London in 1959 and left in 1961.  I have since sold the property,” he said.

Adebanjo added: “While I was the organising secretary of the Action Congress I was very much attached to Awolowo because I was in charge of his constituency in Remo, to the extent that when I was studying in England, he and his wife, HID Awolowo, used to visit me. He would have dinner with me whenever he came for holidays. Their late son, Olusegun, was also studying in England. Whenever his wife was sending foodstuffs to Segun, she would package my own separately.”

Adebanjo entered the Council of Legal Education and was called to the Bar in Lincocin City in 1961. When he returned to Nigeria, he joined Awolowo’s chambers as a practising lawyer.

Having been weaned by the power of ideas, Adebanjo stood with Awo to the end, like Sir. Olaniwun Ajayi, but unlike other Remo youths – Olu Awotesu and Adamo Yesufu.

He played a critical role in organising and mobilising for the party, under a directorate supervised by S.T Oredein, and on the platform of Action Group Association, led by Fani-Kayode, and later by Ayo Fasanmi.

When the party split at the 1962 Jos Conference,  Adebanjo remained loyal to Awo. In fact, he was among the 30 associates of Awolowo charged with him in the infamous treasonable trial. He fled into exile with some of his accused colleagues where they remained under the permissive custody of ideological soulmate, Kwame Nkrumah, while Awolowo was spending his terms in Calabar prison.

Then, the military coup later swept away legitimate authorities,including those who sent Awo into prison. Problems also arose for the exiles in Ghana. Nkrumah was toppled by soldiers, led by Gen. Joseph Ankrah, who put them on a chartered flight and handed them to the Nigerian government. For one year, Adebanjo languished in the Kirikiri prison, until he was released by Gen. Yakubu Gowon.

After the first 13 years of military rule, Adebanjo joined the Unity Party of Nigeria (UPN) founded by Awo. He was sent to the old Borno State to assist Paul Bassey, a governorship candidate. Both of them reconnected again in 2014 as delegates to the National Conference.

Adebanjo was pained that the eight years of political experimentation by former President Ibrahim Babangida led to nowhere. The Social Democratic Party (SDP) presidential candidate, Chief Moshood Abiola, won the June 12, 1993 election, which was criminally annulled. Up came NADECO, which fought the military to a standstill. The election was not de-annulled. Also, Abiola died.

In this Fourth Republic, Adebanjo was one of the key actors. Apart from being vociferous in Afenifere, he was the Acting Chairman of the now weakened Alliance for Democracy (AD), which produced six Southwest governors in 1999.

Unfortunately, the party ran into turbulence right from D’Rovans, Ibadan, during its presidential primary, when key elders ignored their colleague, Bola Ige, Second Republic governor of Oyo State, and queued behind Olu Falae, former Secretary to Federal Military Government. The group, AD/Afenifere, never remained the same. It split and broke down in post-Abraham Adesanya era, with Bola Tinubu, now President of Nigeria, Bisi Akande, Segun Osoba, Niyi Adebayo and Lam Adesina on one side and Ajayi, Kofo Akerele Bucknor, Falae, Femi Okunrounmu and Ganiyu Dawodu on the other side. The party was factionalised along Akande and Mojisoluwa Akinfenwa factions.

 Genuine reconciliation has been futile. While Pa Rueben Fasoranti is the Leader of Afenifere, Adebanjo continued to hold court in Lagos as acting leader. Except on fundamentals – true federalism, restructuring and public welfare – the two were not on the same page in 2023. While Afenifere saw the need to back a son of the soil,Tinubu, those with Adebanjo opted for Obi, also on the divided platform of Afenifere. Adebanjo became a critic of Tinubu, who nevertheless won the poll.

One of his regrets was how former President Goodluck Jonathan treated the report of the 2014 conference.

He said: “The 2014 conference was one of the documents handed over by the Jonathan government to President Buhari, but the president put the recommendations into the archive. The 2014 conference was a reflection of the 1963 constitutional conference. It established federalism, regionalism and separation of powers. People are just being mischievous about the whole thing.”

Outpouring of tributes and condolences over the death of Afenifere chieftain, Chief Ayo Adebanjo, continued yesterday with governors, monarchs and other individuals and groups taking turns to salute the elder statesman.

Senate President Godswill Akpabio described the death of the nonagenarian as the end of an era.  To Governor Peter Mba of Enugu State, he was a courageous and principled leader. The Afenifere Diaspora in the United States said his death was “a gargantuan loss while the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, described him as not just a political figure but a guardian of Yoruba ideals.

The elder statesman had passed away peacefully at his residence in Lekki, Lagos State on Friday morning at the age of 96.

In a press statement signed by the Leader of Afenifere Diaspora USA, Prof. Sikiru Fadairo, and the Secretary, Comrade David Adenekan, the group expressed their profound grief at his passing, calling it “a vacuum too big to be filled.”

They also celebrated his enduring legacy, drawing on the words of English author George Eliot: “Our dead are never dead to us until we have forgotten them.”

To honour his memory, the group said that Pa Adebanjo “died not,” adding, “We continue to embrace and practice his legacies of fairness, equity and justice in our national polity, even in the deadly face of intimidation and countless ‘naked powers’ displayed by those in authority.

“Suffice it to say death has done its worst. Pa Ayodele Samuel Adebanjo has peacefully joined our ancestors in the world beyond. It is indeed a life well spent but has left a gargantuan loss and a vacuum too big to be filled for humanity.”

The Afenifere Diaspora USA extended their condolences to the national leadership of Afenifere, the Yoruba people at home and abroad, and the entire nation.

“We are mourning and celebrating the passing of another sage in the history of humanity,” they declared.

“A man who sacrificed his personal enjoyment of life for the great burden of selfless service to humanity. It did not matter ‘whose ox was gored, he spoke the truth to power.”

Reflecting on his lifelong principles, the group noted that “Pa Ayo Adebanjo in his entire life stood for justice, equity and fairness.

“A case in point was his determination to ensure that the South-East geopolitical zone received a fair share of the rotational presidency among the six geopolitical zones, underscoring the need for fairness, justice and equity.

“Can the Yoruba people, in dire need of purposeful and visionary leadership, fill the big vacuum he has left behind?

“The passing away of Pa Ayodele Samuel Adebanjo marks another loss of a sage in the history of the Yoruba and humanity.

“Yes, another sage is gone; it is the beginning of a new dawn. Whose head will fit the cap for the evolution of a new era in the entire Afenifere family?”

Adebanjo’s demise, end of an era, says Akpabio

Senate President Godswill Akpabio described the demise of Pa Ayo Adebanjo as the end of an era.

In a statement he personally signed and made available to newsmen, Akpabio said he received with profound sadness the news of the passing of the renowned leader and elder statesman.

The Senate President said: “Pa Adebanjo’s glorious exit at the age of 96 marks the end of an era, and as a people, we mourn the loss of a selfless patriot who dedicated his life to fighting for truth, equity and justice.

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“His unwavering commitment to the principles of justice and equity has left an indelible mark on our nation’s history.

“His leadership and vision inspired generations, and his legacy will continue to inspire and motivate us to work towards a more just and equitable society.

“On behalf of my family, the people of Akwa Ibom North West Senatorial District and the Nigerian Senate, I extend my deepest condolences to Papa’s family, particularly his wife, Chief Christy Ayo-Adebanjo, the entire Afenifere family and the government and people of Ogun State.

“May God grant them the fortitude to bear this irreparable loss.

“May Pa Adebanjo’s soul rest in perfect peace.”

He was principled, courageous, say Gov Mbah

Enugu State governor, Dr. Peter Mbah, joined other well-meaning Nigerians in mourning the Afanifere chieftain, describing him as a patriot, soldier of democracy and respectable statesman.

In a post on his verified X (formerly Twitter) handle, @PNMbah, the governor described the late nonagenarian as a courageous and principled leader, who said it exactly the way he saw it, irrespective of whose ox was gored.

He said: “I received with utmost shock and deep sense of grief the passing of Pa Adebanjo.

“He was a forthright, courageous and principled leader who spoke the truth without fear or favour.

“Always at the vanguard of equity and justice, Pa Adebanjo stoutly defended what he believed to be true, right and just.

“He was a soldier of democracy. Whether it was in the days of Pa Obafemi Awolowo or during the military era and the struggle for democracy under the auspices of the National Democratic Coalition, NADECO, he was fearless in the trenches, fighting for democracy and the blessings it promises.

“On behalf of my family and the good people of Enugu State, therefore, I send heartfelt condolences to his family, the Government and people of Ogun State, Afenifere and indeed the Yoruba nation and Nigeria at large over this irreparable loss.”

He also prayed for the peaceful repose of the soul of the deceased.

Adebanjo, guardian of Yoruba ideals, says Ooni

The Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, also paid glowing tribute to the late Pa Ayo Adebanjo, describing him as not just a political figure but also a guardian of Yoruba ideals.

A statement signed by the monarch’s Director, Media and Public Affairs, Mr Moses Olafare, yesterday said: “Ogunwusi joins other eminent Yoruba people to celebrate the passage of an iconic elder statesman, Adebanjo, who died at the age of 96.

“Ooni does not mourn but rather celebrates the legacy and indelible impact of those who have walked the path of honour and left behind footprints of greatness.”

The traditional ruler also described Adebanjo as a relentless advocate for fairness, equity and the true federalism upon which Nigeria was envisioned.

Ogunwusi said that the voice of the deceased was always firm and unrelenting and was a moral compass for generations of leaders and followers alike.

He said that Pa Adebanjo lived and fought for democracy, justice and the welfare of the common man, standing tall even in the face of opposition.

“Pa Adebanjo’s transition is not an end but a passage into the realm of the ancestors where he has joined the league of great Yoruba forebears like the late Obafemi Awolowo, the late Ooni Adesoji Aderemi and all other true Awoists who shaped the destiny of our people.

“His exemplary life serves as an eternal blueprint for leadership, courage and selfless service.

“The House of Oduduwa celebrates his legacy, praying that the ideals he upheld will continue to guide our leaders and inspire the younger generation to embrace the values of truth, justice and unity.

“May his soul find rest among the noble ones of our land,” Ooni Ogunwusi prayed.

NADECO: We lost a gem, kingmaker

The National Democratic Coalition (NADECO) says it has lost a gem and kingmaker in the death of the late Afenifere Leader, Chief Ayo Adebanjo.

A NADECO chieftain, Chief Ayo Opadokun, who led an eight-man delegation on a condolence visit to the Adebanjo family, said the group would continue to mourn the elder statesman.

Addressing newsmen, Opadokun said Adebanjo, as at the time of his exit from the terrestrial divide, was the oldest member of the defunct Action Group (AG).

He said that Adebanjo was one of the first provincial organising secretaries of AG, led by the late Chief Obafemi Awolowo.

Opadokun said: “Chief Adebanjo was known for being a man of conviction throughout his life span.

“He was a distinguished apostle of Awoism and the egalitarian philosophy of life more abundant and welfarism.

“These were embodied in the AG, Unity Party of Nigeria and the Alliance for Democracy, which he chaired after the unfortunate departure of Amb. Jolly Tanko Yusuf who decamped to the PDP.

“Chief Adebanjo was a man of discipline, courage and industry, as he was in the habit of committing himself to anything he had voluntarily associated himself with.

“Chief Adebanjo was never missing in the thick of Afenifere and NADECO’s many brushes with the Nigerian state coercive agents.”

He said that the late elder statesman advocated for Nigeria’s adoption of federalism as its system of government.

He said Adebanjo did all these because of the recognition by AG that Nigeria, being a heterogeneous country, should have a mode of government that allowed for free reigns of all the country’s diversities but united as federation of regions.

“Adebanjo was an accomplished kingmaker of sort, as many people were groomed under his influence,” the NADECO chieftain remarked.

According to him, the late elder statesman was one of the founders of NADECO, adding that he was a dedicated patriot.

He applauded the late Adebanjo’s unwavering passion for justice, equity and fairness to all nationalities within Nigeria, noting that his legacy would remain indelible.

“NADECO could say without any ambiguity that Chief Adebanjo had run the race and he has finished his course exceptionally well.

“When shall we find again the kind of dedicated patriots who money or lure of office cannot buy, particularly in these challenging times?” he queried.

Opadokun said that NADECO would remain committed and steadfast to ensure that Nigeria returned to a federal constitutional governing country.

Responding, Adebanjo’s first daughter, Mrs Adeola Azeez, commended NADECO for its support.

She described her father’s passing as a tremendous loss to Nigeria, the Yoruba people and everyone who knew him.

“We will all miss him. He was a very courageous and fearless leader who touched so many lives.

“He loved Nigeria so much that he decided to depart this world on Valentine’s Day,” she said.

Azeez said that if Yoruba and Nigeria could come together, his father would be proud, even in death.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the NADECO chieftains on the delegation included Prof. Sylvester Akhaine, Chief Linus Okoro, Chief Gbenga Akaka, Dr Kola Afolabi, Ms Tessy Irabor, Chief Wale Osun and Popoola Ajayi.

NAN also reports that friends, associates and family members have been thronging Adebanjo’s Lekki residence since his passing was announced on Friday afternoon.

Adebanjo died on Friday in his Lagos home at the age of 96.

Adebanjo had culture of consistency — Arewa leader

Lagos, Feb. 15, 2025 (NAN) The National President of Arewa Youths Consultative Forum (AYCF), Alhaji Yerima Shettima, on Saturday paid a condolence visit to the family of late leader of Afenifere, Chief Ayo Adebanjo.

Speaking with newsmen after meeting with the family, Shettima said: “Baba had lived a fulfilled life. Some of us are proponents of restructuring, and that is what he stood for till the end.

“We will continue to build on what he built and what he stood for.”

He described Adebanjo as a foremost nationalist and great mentor to many.

Shettima added: “Baba has always been a nationalist par excellence. I am here because I was always very close to him.

“He (Adebanjo) mentored us seriously. Despite our differences and background, he was always a great nationalist and had this culture of consistency.”

The Arewa leader said the late Adebanjo lived and stood for justice, fairness and equity.

Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has hailed the late Pa Ayo Adebanjo, leader of Afenifere, as a steadfast advocate for a united Nigeria.

Obi shared this tribute in a condolence message on his X handle on Friday, mourning the passing of the Afenifere leader at the age of 96.

“We extend our deepest condolences to the Adebanjo family and the Afenifere organisation.

“His death is a profound loss to Nigeria and all who cherish justice, equity, and truth,” he said.

Obi further described Adebanjo as a leader who remained committed to a united and progressive Nigeria.

“His unwavering commitment to fairness has left an indelible mark on our nation’s history,” Obi added.

Reflecting on his political journey, Obi expressed gratitude for being close to great minds who shaped his perception of Nigeria as a great country.

Read Also: Why we’re still in Togo, Benin varsities despite FG’s ban on their certificates — Nigerian students

“One such person is Pa Ayo Adebanjo, the quintessential Afenifere leader,” he said.

“I remain deeply grateful for his support during my presidential campaign. His endorsement was a testament to his belief in equity and inclusiveness.”

Obi praised Adebanjo for standing firm in his convictions and for his dedication to Nigeria’s greater good.

“The last time I spoke with him, his words left a lasting impression: ‘Always stand on the path of justice.’

“That advice remains a guiding principle in my life,” Obi recalled.

In his tribute, Obi referenced Nelson Mandela’s words, appreciating how Pa Adebanjo’s independent mind helped him see problems from all perspectives.

As Nigerians mourn his loss, Obi urged them to celebrate Adebanjo’s life of service and commit to upholding his values. “May his death not be in vain,” Obi said.

He extended his condolences to the Adebanjo family and the Afenifere organisation, praying that Nigerians find solace in the legacy left by Adebanjo.

(NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Senate President Godswill Akpabio has described as the end of an era, the demise of  Afenifere Leader, Pa Ayo Adebanjo

Akpabio, in a statement he personally signed,  said he received with profound sadness the news of the passing of Adebanjo, a renowned leader and elder statesman.

According to Akpabio: “Pa Adebanjo’s glorious exit at the age of 96 marks the end of an era, and as a people, we mourn the loss of a selfless patriot, who dedicated his life to fighting for truth, equity and justice.

“His unwavering commitment to the principles of justice and equity has left an indelible mark on our nation’s history.

“His leadership and vision inspired generations, and his legacy will continue to inspire and motivate us to work towards a more just and equitable society.

“On behalf of my family, the people of Akwa Ibom North West Senatorial District and the Nigerian Senate, I extend my deepest condolences to Papa’s family, particularly his wife, Chief Christy Ayo-Adebanjo, the entire Afenifere family and the government and people of Ogun State and may God grant them the fortitude to bear this irreparable loss. May Pa Adebanjo’s soul rest in perfect peace.”

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has described the passing of elder statesman and Afenifere leader, Pa Ayo Adebanjo, as an immense loss to Nigeria, highlighting his decade-long struggle for justice, democracy, and national unity.

In a statement he personally issued on Friday, Tinubu paid tribute to Adebanjo’s lifelong dedication to progressive ideals, acknowledging his pivotal role in shaping Nigeria’s political landscape.

“Nigeria has lost a political leader whose decades of unwavering struggle for justice, democracy, and national unity have left an indelible mark on our nation’s history,” Tinubu said.

Adebanjo, a prominent advocate for good governance and civil rights, passed away peacefully on Friday, February 14, 2025, at his home in Lekki, Lagos, according to his family.

Tinubu recalled Adebanjo’s critical role in Nigeria’s democratic struggles, particularly during periods of political turbulence.

“In moments of national crisis, Baba’s courage shone brightest. When democracy hung in the balance after the annulment of the June 12, 1993, presidential election, he joined the National Democratic Coalition (NADECO) as one of the leading voices against military dictatorship,” the President noted.

Adebanjo’s activism was instrumental in galvanizing the movement that ultimately restored civilian rule in Nigeria. His influence extended across generations, shaping political discourse and inspiring democratic engagement.

Read Also: 12 things to know about late Afenifere chieftain Ayo Adebanjo

Adebanjo, a staunch disciple of the late Chief Obafemi Awolowo, was deeply involved in Nigeria’s political evolution, serving as the Organising Secretary of the Action Group in the First Republic and later playing a key role in the Unity Party of Nigeria during the Second Republic.

“Baba, as a lawyer, statesman, and politician, stood among the last of a generation of nationalists and independent heroes who shaped the foundation of our country,” Tinubu said.

His support for Tinubu’s political journey was also highlighted in the President’s tribute. 

“His unwavering commitment to truth and justice extended to my journey as a governorship candidate in 1999. Baba Adebanjo’s steadfast support was instrumental in my election as Governor of Lagos State under the platform of the Alliance for Democracy,” Tinubu recalled.

Though their political paths diverged in later years, Tinubu affirmed that his respect and admiration for Adebanjo never wavered, saying “until his death, I shared a deep personal bond with Baba Adebanjo; he was like a father figure”.

As Nigeria mourns Adebanjo’s passing, Tinubu extended condolences to his family, the Afenifere group, Southwest governors, and all Nigerians who shared his vision.

“Let us take solace in the enduring legacy of a man who dedicated his life to the service of others—a legacy that will continue to inspire generations to come,” he said.

“Pa Ayo Adebanjo, aged 96, leaves behind a legacy of principled leadership and an unrelenting commitment to justice.”

…calls his passing an immense national loss

Former President Muhammadu Buhari has expressed deep sorrow over the passing of Afenifere chieftain, Chief Ayo Adebanjo, describing it as a significant loss to the nation.

In a statement issued by his spokesperson, Mallam Garba Shehu, on Wednesday, Buhari eulogised Adebanjo as a rare political figure who left a lasting impact across law, politics, and socio-cultural activism.

“The late Chief Adebanjo was one of those rare politicians who straddled the worlds of the legal profession, politics, and socio-cultural activism,” Buhari remarked.

Read Also: 12 things to know about late Afenifere chieftain Ayo Adebanjo

The former President extended his condolences to Adebanjo’s family, his admirers, and the government and people of Ogun State.

He also prayed for the peaceful repose of the deceased’s soul and strength for those grieving his loss.

Adebanjo, a veteran politician and elder statesman, was widely regarded for his role in Nigeria’s democratic evolution and advocacy for good governance.