The Nation Newspaper

Tag: Ayo Adebanjo

  • Adebanjo departs unobtrusively

    Adebanjo departs unobtrusively

    Factional leader of the Yoruba socio-political group Afenifere, Ayo Adebanjo has died aged 96. He lived exceedingly well and long by any global standard. Apart from his successful legal and political careers, he was also a principled and dogged fighter for popular and progressive causes. However, in his twilight years, he became more controversial than his age and ebbing strength should permit, while his summations, particularly on politics, also became more brittle than expected of so experienced and avid a politician.

    Read Also: inDrive unveils cashless bank transfer feature in Nigeria

    He was a stand-in Afenifere leader, but after running into needless controversies that rankled with the group, the substantive but tiring Afenifere leader, Reuben Fasoranti, 98, tried to retake the reins of leadership. Chief Adebanjo resisted, leaving Afenifere factionalised till he died. That should be one of his regrets. Though age did not temper his fighting spirit, it enfeebled his body, and sadly also rendered his judgement less perspicuous. He should have done everything to heal the divisions in the group, particularly by reaching accommodation with his compatriots, so that his departure, which he knew was imminent, could stimulate fond and lingering memories of him. He probably has his reasons.

    It has, however, become the lot of Afenifere that its successive leaders over the years have attracted some disquiet than exuded lustre, perhaps because of Nigeria’s worsening political complexities and the dominance of self-willed national leaders who exploit national cleavages for private goals. It would be tragic if Chief Adebanjo’s faction let the divisions ossify. 

  • Southwest governors mourn Adebanjo

    Southwest governors mourn Adebanjo

    The South-West Governors Forum has mourned the passage of elder statesman and foremost nationalist, Chief Ayo Adebanjo.

     Adebanjo, an Afenifere chieftain and former National Chairman of the Alliance for Democracy (AD), died on Friday at his residence in Lekki at the age of 96.

     Governor Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State is the chairman of the Forum.

    A statement issued by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity to Sanwo-Olu, Mr. Gboyega Akosile, said the death of Adebanjo, one of Nigeria’s most celebrated elder statesmen, was a colossal loss to the country and the Yoruba socio-cultural organisation, Afenifere, and an irreplaceable loss to the people of Ijebu and Ogun State.

     He also expressed condolences to the Adebanjo family, Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, and the entire Isanyan Ogbo community in Ijebu, Ogun State, on the passing of a social and political leader who never held executive or appointed government office in his lifetime.

    Read Also: Awakening the sleeping giant – Nigeria’s urgent call for change

    Sanwo-Olu said Chief Adebanjo’s record of service to the Yoruba nation and Nigeria as a whole as a celebrated lawyer, politician, rights activist, and Afenifere chieftain would remain indelible for generations to come.

     He said: “On behalf of my family, the government and people of Lagos State, and the entire people of South-West, we celebrate the departure of our foremost nationalist and Afenifere chieftain, Ayo Adebanjo, who contributed his quota to the growth and development of Yoruba and Nigeria during his lifetime.

     “The legacies of Chief Ayo Adebanjo cannot be forgotten because of the positive impacts he made during his lifetime and his extraordinary life of courage and service to humanity, his community, the Yoruba race, and the nation.

     “He was devoted and committed to the Nigeria Project for about seven decades. We cherish his commitment to fighting for truth, equity, justice, true federalism, and good governance, which he championed and fought for many decades until his last breath.

     “Pa Adebanjo was a fearless and courageous man, who fought for justice with honesty and integrity. He was in the trenches for many years, even at old age, fighting for a better Nigeria. He was a hero of democracy and teamed up with other progressives and members of the National Democratic Coalition (NADECO) against the annulment of the June 12 election.

     “I commiserate with Chief Ayo Adebanjo’s widow and family members, friends, associates, the people of Ijebu community, Yoruba, and all Nigerians over the death of the elder statesman.

     “I pray for the repose of the soul of the late Chief Ayo Adebanjo. May God grant the deceased family, loved ones and the Yoruba the fortitude to bear the irreparable loss of the nonagenarian.”

  • Tinubu, Buhari, others mourn as Ayo Adebanjo dies at 96

    Tinubu, Buhari, others mourn as Ayo Adebanjo dies at 96

    • He was a father figure despite our political differernces – Tinubu
    • Flood of tributes for late Afenifere leader

    President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, former presidents Olusegun Obasanjo and Muhammadu Buhari, state governors, the pan-Yoruba socio-political organisation Afenifere and the Coalition of United Political Parties (CUPP) were among the prominent individuals and groups thrown into mourning yesterday by the death of Afenifere chieftain, Pa Ayo Adebanjo.

    A statement issued by the family said the elder statesman died peacefully at his Lekki residence in Lagos yesterday morning.

    The statement reads: “With a heart full of gratitude for a selfless life spent in the service of God, the nation and humanity, we announce the passing on of our beloved patriarch, Chief Samuel Ayodele Adebanjo.

    “He died peacefully this morning, Friday, February 14, 2025 at his Lekki, Lagos Nigeria home at the age of 96.

    “The foremost nationalist, elder statesman, distinguished lawyer, very distinct politician, apostle of true federalism, former organising secretary of Action Group and the national leader of Afenifere is survived by his 94-year-old wife, Chief Christy Ayo-Adebanjo, children, grandchildren and great grandchildren.

    “We will forever cherish his commitment to fighting for truth, equity and justice. His belief and struggle for a truly independent and progressive Nigeria was total, and this he fought for until he breathed his last breath.

    “The family is consulting with Papa’s friends, associates, numerous interest groups across the length and breadth of Nigeria and beyond to fine tune plans for a befitting funeral details which will be communicated in due course.”

    Reacting to the death of the elder statesman in a statement yesterday, President Tinubu described it as an immense loss to Nigeria, highlighting his decades-long struggle for justice, democracy and national unity.

    The President 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,” he said.

    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.

    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”.

    President Tinubu extended condolences to Pa Adebanjo’s 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.

    Immense national loss, says Buhari

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

    In a statement issued by his spokesperson, Mallam Garba Shehu, 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.

    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 for strength for those grieving his loss.

    His death a huge personal loss —Obasanjo

    In his own tribute, former President, Chief Olusegun Obasanjo, described the late Adebanjo as a great man, a committed nationalist, an effective representative of his people and an unpretentious personality.

    Obasanjo said: “It was with deep sense of personal loss that I received the sad news of the passing of my beloved friend and senior brother, Chief Ayo Adebanjo, away in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, where I am currently attending the 38th Ordinary Session of the African Union Assembly.”

    The former President, in the tribute made available to newsmen by his Special Assistant on Media, Kehinde Akinyemi, stated that the unfortunate news came to him as a shock, lamenting that his passing was “no doubt, a huge loss not only to me and to Ogun State but also to the country as a whole.

    “The unfortunate news came to me as a shock because when last I visited him on February 3, 2025 at his Lekki residence, though he was in such a fragile state, I had no inkling he would leave us so soon.

    “His transition is, no doubt, a huge loss not only to me and to Ogun State but also to the country as a whole.  He was a great man, a committed nationalist and an effective representative of his people.

    Read Also: FG must take actions against social media giants’ excesses, says advocacy group

    “Looking back, Chief Adebanjo had a highly successful career with selfless service rendered to his community, state and, indeed, the entire nation.

    “As a foundation member of the Action Group Party (A.G.), he will be remembered as a foremost nationalist and patriot who has given his best as an active community leader and an exemplary politician with integrity, and one who has demonstrated that politics is an avenue not for mindless enrichment but for rendering faithful service to humanity.”

    Obasanjo noted that Adebanjo’s “commitment to enthroning democracy in our dear country, his tenacity in the face of daunting odds and mortal risk to his life is very common knowledge, and these mark him out as a courageous political leader and true patriot.

    “Not surprisingly, he had come to be regarded as one of our most notable elder statesmen, who had an enviable track record of purposefulness, honesty and integrity to bear in promoting the cause of national unity.”

    The former President recalled that “as a democratically-elected President of Nigeria between 1999 and 2007, we both sometimes disagreed to agree to committedly regenerate and reposition our country to meet the hopes and aspirations of the Nigerian people and chart the course to our nation’s glorious future.

    “He was such an unpretentious personality! His thoughts, utterances and deeds were completely devoid of political partisanship. He had friends from all over the country and he led a life filled with remarkable experiences.

    “Until his death, he fought with courage and tenacity to see to the restructuring of the Nigerian nation through which good governance based on democratic principles and practice and leading to unity in diversity, justice and equity, political stability, nationalism, popular participation, peace and security and socio-economic progress with strong leadership would be enshrined.

    “It is unfortunate that his dream to see this through couldn’t be actualised in his lifetime. Indeed, Chief Adebanjo’s contributions to the strengthening of our fledgling democracy will be missed by the entire nation.

    “My family and I commiserate with his immediate and extended family members on this painful loss and pray that God will grant them and the rest of us, his friends and admirers, the fortitude to bear the irreparable loss.”

    He was a patriot par excellence —Fasoranti

    The National leader of the pan-Yoruba socio-political organisation Afenifere, Pa Reuben Fasoranti, said the deceased chieftain of the association was a patriot par excellence. Fasoranti stated this in a statement he personally issued on Friday. He said the contribution of the late Adebanjo to the attainment of Nigerian independence and democracy would not be erased in the history of the country.

    The statement reads: “It is with great sadness that I received the news of the passing into glory of Chief Samuel Ayodeji Adebanjo, my brother, comrade-in-arms and political associate for upwards of 70 years.

    “His contributions during the struggle for Nigeria’s independence as well as during struggles for the restoration and sustenance of democracy in Nigeria shall remain indelible in the annals of Nigeria’s history.

    “He was an unrelenting ideologue who fought for many noble causes under the auspices of Afenifere where he was once the acting leader.”

    Fasoranti added that members of the Afenifere family would greatly miss Adebanjo who, according to him, was “a custodian of positive values that define progressive politics in Nigeria.”

    “As a disciple of the late sage, Chief Obafemi Awolowo, GCFR, SAN, he was committed to the principles of good governance, rule of law and the protection of fundamental rights of Nigerians.

    “His advocacy for the restructuring of Nigeria was borne out of the conviction that only a truly federal Nigeria, where justice and fairness are supreme, could fulfill the aspirations of the people.

    “I pray that God will grant the family the fortitude to bear this great loss.”

    Ogun lost another icon —Daniel

    Former Ogun State governor, Senator Gbenga Daniel, expressed sadness over the death of the nonagenarian and Afenifere leader, describing him as old Awo stock in Yorubaland.

    The Senator in a release shared on his verified official X handle, stated that Ogun State and the entire Yoruba nation have again lost another icon.

    Daniel stated: “It’s sad to hear the news of the passing of one of our great leaders in Afenifere, one of the last Titans, Pa Ayo Adebanjo.

    “His ability to stand firm on his convictions and his strength of purpose for whatever he believed in was exemplary, as was his legendary oratory power.

    “Pa Adebanjo was of the old Awo stock in Yoruba ethos, reminding us every inch of the way about the value of fairness, equity and justice; values for which he fought till his last breath.

    “Nigeria shall surely miss his invaluable contributions to our national discourse as we search for true federalism and statehood.

    “Ogun State and the entire Yoruba nation have again lost another icon.”

    Why we’ll always remember him—Afenifere

    The Pan-Yoruba socio-political group, Afenifere, said its late leader, Pa Ayo Adebanjo, will be remembered for his unwavering advocacy for restructuring, true federalism, and a Nigeria founded on equity and inclusivity for all ethnic nationalities.

    Afenifere’s Secretary-General, Chief Sola Ebiseni, made this known in a statement formally announcing the passing of the revered Yoruba leader.

    “Afenifere wishes to formally announce the passing, earlier today, February 14, 2025, of our leader, Chief Ayo Adebanjo, at the age of 96,” Ebiseni stated.

    “An avowed Awoist and a staunch advocate of progressive ideology, Ayo Adebanjo was known for his relentless push for restructuring, true federalism, and a Nigeria built on equity, fairness, and a true sense of belonging for all ethnic nationalities.”

    Ebiseni further noted that for nearly a decade, Adebanjo had often reminded his followers that at his age, he was already at the “departure lounge”— a phrase he used to prepare them for the continued struggle for a better Nigeria, a cause to which he dedicated his life.

    “We will undoubtedly keep the banner flying,” he assured.

    Ebiseni added that further statements would be issued as directed by Afenifere’s Deputy Leader, Oba Oladipo Olaitan, in consultation with Adebanjo’s immediate family.

    CUPP expresses shock

    The Coalition of United Political Parties (CUPP) described the late Afenifere chieftain, Pa Ayo Adebanjo, as an exemplary patriot.

    A statement signed by the spokesperson of the CUPP, Mark Adebayo, said the coalition received the news of Adebanjo’s death with shock and submission to God.

    The statement reads: “It is with shock but total submission to the will of God Almighty that the Coalition of United Political Parties, CUPP, received the sudden demise of a great and exemplary patriot, Pa Ayo Adebanjo.

    “He was a man dedicated to the cause of truth, integrity, justice, fairness and good governance throughout his lifetime.

    “He was a completely detribalized Nigerian who stood for justice and what was right at all times, not minding the personal costs or inconvenience to him.

    “He stood tall in the Hall of Fame of true and intrepid patriots with uncommon courage, deviance and consistency.

    “He will be seriously missed by Nigerians as we continue to navigate the labyrinthine course of interrogating workable panacea for the Nigerian question and its leadership tragedies.

    “As we mourn the loss of a great African and Nigerian, we have solace in the fact that he lived a honorable life devoid of compromise with the corrupt elements that hold Nigeria hostage, while standing solid for one, indivisible but a just Nigerian state.

    “He came, he saw, he fought, he conquered.

    “We express our deepest condolences to his family, the Ogun State Government and all patriotic Nigerians. May his patriotic soul rest in perfect peace.”

    Gov Abiodun: It’s end of a glorious era

    Gov. Dapo Abiodun of Ogun State described the death of Pa Ayo Adebanjo as the end of a glorious era.

    Abiodun, in a statement in Abeokuta yesterday, also described Adebanjo as a man of principle and one of the most prominent and unwavering disciples of the late Chief Obafemi Awolowo.

    He said Adebanjo’s death was a profound loss to Nigeria.

    “The government and people of Ogun could not have wished for a more glorious end for the unblemished apostle of federalism, good governance and the defence of Yoruba interests,” the governor stated.

    He said the late Adebanjo stood head and shoulders above many of his contemporaries and set the pace in the critical appraisal of governments and governance as vehicles of social engineering.

    “The late legal and political icon was one of the few Nigerians whose life embodied the story of Nigeria, from the struggle for independence to the post-independence era, straddling military rule and the return to democratic rule.

    “To all intents and purposes, Chief Ayo Adebanjo represented the finest of Ogun and Nigeria as a whole, and his ideals will never be forgotten.

    “It does not matter where you stand in the political terrain: Adebanjo was a man whose integrity you could not question.

    “He lived through the finest and ugliest moments of Nigerian history, was hounded by the Establishment for his beliefs, and was even exiled for resisting autocracy and the suppression of the masses.

    “He never once hid his identity as a passionate defender of the Yoruba nation and its interests.

    “From his activist beginnings in 1943 as a follower of Dr Nnamdi Azikiwe to his activities as a member of the youth wing of the Action Group (AG) in 1951, right into the early 60s.

    “This was when Awolowo and his lieutenants stood trial for treason, and right into the heady days of the military and the return to civil rule when he actively engaged governments and participated in constitutional conferences to remake the structure, character, and temper of Nigerian federalism.

    “Adebanjo never once refrained from being a voice of courage and a force for good. In particular, his strident advocacy for federalism was unmatched.”

    Aiyedatiwa mourns

    Ondo State Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, expressed sadness over the death of Chief Ayo Adebanjo.

    Governor Aiyedatiwa described the late Adebanjo as a statesman who dedicated his life to serving the people.

    The Ondo State governor, in a statement, said Pa Adebanjo demonstrated unwavering commitment to the values of democracy, justice and equality in Nigeria.

    “His tireless efforts to promote peace, stability and prosperity have left an indelible mark on our country’s history.

    “I extend my heartfelt condolences to his family and loved ones.

    “May they find comfort in the knowledge that his legacy will continue to inspire future generations of leaders and citizens.”

    Makinde: An Iroko has fallen

    Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State likened the death of the prominent leader of the pan-Yoruba socio-political organisation, Afenifere, Pa Ayo Adebanjo, to the fall of a mighty Iroko tree in the forest.

    Makinde, who said Pa Adebanjo’s death marks the end of an era, commended him for being a great nationalist, federalist, patriot and true democrat, who gave his all for Nigeria to be a better country.

    Describing Adebanjo as a father of all, Governor Makinde expressed his condolences to the immediate family of the late Afenifere leader, the Afenifere, the Government and people of Ogun State and the entire South-West people.

    He was a principled patriot —Olawale Oshun

    Chief Whip of the aborted Third Republic and Chairman of Afenifere Renewal Group (ARG), Olawale Oshun, described the late Pa Ayo Adebanjo as a patriot and a principled man.

    His words: “A great man has just passed away. One must give it to him, Baba was a great and principled man; he set his principles and abided by them.

    “Pa Adebanjo wasn’t just a politician, because we politicians do change principles midway, but Baba was not like that. He always remained steadfast in the decisions he made.

    ”Pa Adebanjo believes in the cause and the development of the Yoruba people. But, I dare say that he was one of those who believed in Nigeria among his peers.

    “He lived long; the Lord granted him long life. Were he to reincarnate as a Nigerian again, I would prefer to see him focus his attention more on Yoruba issues than on national issues.

    “Baba Adebanjo has lived quite well, quite long; he lived till the ripe age of 96. Nobody can wish for a longer life, and he was healthy all through. He was always on his feet; bouncing.

    “Baba was never intimidated; he used every ounce of his weight to assert his points.

    “He was one of the luckiest human beings created by God because, until his death, the man enjoyed good health.

    “Anytime I ask God for a long life, I always ask Him to give me up to 85. If you see Baba at 95, bouncing on his feet, making his point, you want to ask God for 100.

    “May God bless his soul and forgive his shortcomings.”

    Gani Adams: Yoruba lost an Iroko

    The Aareonakakanfo of Yorubaland, Iba Gani Abiodun Adams, described the death of foremost Afenifere leader and staunch Awoist, the late Chief Ayo Adebanjo, as a monumental loss, saying the Yoruba leader was an Iroko whose voice remained prominent across Nigeria.

    Iba Adams, in a statement signed personally, said the death of the late Pa Adebanjo has created a big vacuum in the socio-political space, depriving the Yoruba of a strong voice that revolves around every circle.

    He said: “I received with great shock the news of the death of the foremost Yoruba son, an uncompromised leader, repository of political history in Yoruba land and apostle of true federalism, the late Pa Ayo Adebanjo.

    “His death was such a monumental loss, creating a vacuum in socio-political space and depriving the Yoruba of a strong voice in the polity.

    “In his death, we have lost a lot, considering his modest lifestyle, wisdom and bluntness.

    “Pa Ayo Adebanjo was a true disciple of the late sage, Chief Obafemi Awolowo, who preached the gospel of true federalism, and remained committed to the ideals of the late Awolowo.

    “The late Pa Adebanjo was also the man with a lion heart, courageous and blunt. He feared no tribulations and all his life, he was also a symbol of integrity and hard work.”

    Referencing his relationship with the late Afenifere leader, Iba Adams said the life of Pa Adebanjo reminded him of the loss of a friend and Baba’s adopted son- the late Yinka Odumakin, and the energy he put up in fighting for justice and fairness in Nigeria.

    “When a race loses such a leader and an unapologetic Awoist, a leader that speak truth to power, you can understand the extent of the loss.

    “But in all, I find solace in the fact that Baba Adebanjo lived a fulfilled life as a man of integrity and value. He would be glad in the end that he tried his best for the Yoruba.

    “For us that are alive, the journey to address the obvious injustice and lacuna in Nigeria has continued even after the death of the late Yoruba leader.

    “We will not relent in our efforts to promote the Ideals for which the late Pa Ayo Adebanjo lived and died for.”

    While praying for the soul of the Afenifere leader, Iba Gani Adams condoled with the immediate family of the Yoruba leader, the wife, Chief Christy Ayo-Adebanjo, the children, Afenifere and Yoruba at large.

    Adebanjo: what I’ll miss, says Oba Olaitan

    His Royal Highness, Oba Oladipo Olaitan and the Deputy Leader of the pan-Yoruba socio cultural group, Afenifere, Obao Olaitan has mourned the passing of its leader, Pa Ayo Adebanjo.

    Adebanjo died yesterday in his Lagos home after a protracted undisclosed ailment.

    Olaitan, who mourned the passing of the sage, said he will miss everything about Adebanjo, described as the last Awoist standing.

    “You have to know this man to appreciate him.

    “Yes. I had to know him to appreciate him. He’s consistent to a fault.

    “And when you are not close to him, you wonder, is this a broken record, just repeating itself? But if you get close to him, you will see that it is not like that.

    “Everything he says, he knows, understands, and he knows the import and the importance of it.

     “And he holds himself liable for whatever consequences that will come from whatever he has said. He has spent all his life doing this. He started as an organization secretary.

    “I have known him now for about 60 years, and often, I wonder what drives him. A lot of the time, I’d called him to ask why he carried Nigeria’s problems on his head.

    “Even on his sick bed, I asked him what he wanted, as he was always asking for development and the state of the nation.

    “I noticed that the moment you begin to talk about Nigeria, one life comes into him. I mean, he would suddenly assume strength and he will at the moment become strong.

    “Oh, I will miss everything about him.

    “Each time I asked that he should pray for me that I would like to be like him, he always laughed and said to me that I should hold on to nothing but the truth, justice and equity.

    “Though he would say that path is tough, he kept saying that was what he has always done.

    “He often said to me to avoid tempting goodies of life, if those things come against the fight for truthfulness, justice and equity.

    “Adebanjo is the last man standing, the true, original, unadulterated Awoist is gone!” the monarch sighed.”

  • 12 things to know about late Afenifere chieftain Ayo Adebanjo

    12 things to know about late Afenifere chieftain Ayo Adebanjo

    Afenifere Chieftain Pa Ayo Adebanjo died on Friday morning at his Lekki residence in Lagos.

    A statement by the family said he died peacefully. 

    It reads: “With a heart full of gratitude for a selfless life spent in the service of God, the nation and humanity, we announce the passing on of our beloved patriarch, Chief Samuel Ayodele Adebanjo. 

    “He died peacefully this morning, Friday, February 14, 2025 at his Lekki, Lagos Nigeria home at the age of 96. 

    “The foremost nationalist, elder statesman, distinguished lawyer, very distinct politician, apostle of true federalism, former organising secretary of Action Group and the national leader of Afenifere is survived by his 94 year-old wife, Chief Christy Ayo-Adebanjo, children, grandchildren and great grandchildren.

    “We will forever cherish his commitment to fighting for truth, equity and justice. His belief and struggle for a truly independent and progressive Nigeria was total and this he fought for until he breathed his last breath. 

    “The family is consulting with Papa’s friends, associates, numerous interest groups across the length and breadth of Nigeria and beyond, to fine tune plans for a befitting funeral details which will be communicated in due course.

    “A condolence register is open at his residence in Lagos (8, Ayo Adebanjo Close, Lekki Phase 1, Lagos) and  his country home in Isanya Ogbo, near Ijebu Ode Ogun State.”

    Here are 12 things to know about the late Afenifere chieftain Ayo Adebanjo:

    1. Chief Ayo Adebanjo was born on April 10, 1928, and lived through major historical moments in Nigeria, including colonial rule, independence, military regimes, and the return to democracy.

    2. He was 96. 

    3. He started his political journey in 1943 as a Zikist, following Dr. Nnamdi Azikiwe, before joining the Action Group in 1951 under Chief Obafemi Awolowo.

    4. Adebanjo remained committed to the political ideology of Awoism, which advocates for federalism, free education, and social welfare.

    5. In 1962, during the Action Group crisis, he was charged with treason and fled to Ghana. His father was arrested in his place and detained.

    6. He played a significant role in the National Democratic Coalition (NADECO) after the annulment of the June 12, 1993, election, standing against military rule and advocating for democracy.

    7. He was a consistent voice for restructuring Nigeria, believing that true federalism is necessary for the country’s survival.

    8. Originally a journalist before studying law in England, he effectively used the media to voice his opinions on national issues.

    9. Throughout his career, he remained a strong opposition figure, often critiquing leaders he believes have abandoned the progressive ideals of the Yoruba people.

    10. Adebanjo was known for his disciplined lifestyle, he does not smoke or drink and maintains an exercise routine, which he credits for his longevity.

    11. Though he may not have received national honours, he was widely respected for his integrity, consistency, and dedication to a better Nigeria.

    12. Survived by his 94 year-old wife, Chief Christy Ayo-Adebanjo, children, grandchildren and great grandchildren.

  • Tinubu, Abiodun, Anyaoku, Ayo Adebanjo, others bid Ogunbanjo farewell

    Tinubu, Abiodun, Anyaoku, Ayo Adebanjo, others bid Ogunbanjo farewell

    President Bola Ahmed Tinubu yesterday led eminent Nigerians to Erunwon, near Ijebu-Ode in Ogun State, to bid farewell to foremost industrialist, Chief Chris Ogunbanjo.

    The eminent lawyer died on October 7, 2023, few months to his centenary celebration.

    President Tinubu was represented by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Senator George Akume. 

    Other dignitaries at the event included Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun; Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Mr. Wale Edun; two former Ogun State Governors Olusegun Osoba and Ibikunle Amosun; former Ekiti State Governor Niyi Adebayo, and a former Commonwealth Secretary General, Chief Emeka Anyaoku.

    Others were ex-Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, Senator Udo Udoma; the Ogbeni Oja of Ijebu land, Chief Sunny Kuku; Afenifere leader, Pa Ayo Adebanjo; former Lagos State Deputy Governor Sinatu Ojikutu.

    Read Also; Our transformation efforts on economy succeeding with NASS cooperation – Tinubu

    Speaking at the funeral service, President Tinubu described the late boardroom guru, philanthropist and corporate leader as a lover of God Almighty and his people.

    He urged members of the family to remain united as they prepared to take over the mantle of leadership from their departed patriarch.

    The President urged residents of Ogun State and other parts of the country to emulate the late philanthropist.

    “The lesson we can learn is to emulate his wonderful character while he lived. He was a fine and extraordinary man.

    “Papa has gone and left a wonderful family behind. To the members of the family: be as united and solid as ever as you prepare to take over the mantle of leadership from your wonderful father, grandfather, and great-grandfather,” he said.

    Governor Abiodun said the late Ogunbanjo made impressionable contributions to national economic policy, encouraged Nigerians to own and be part of the management of foreign companies in the country.

    “He made impressionable contributions to national economic policy. He encouraged Nigerians to own and be part of the management of foreign companies in Nigeria,

    “He was the champion and advocate for the domiciliary accounts in Nigeria. This later came into existence formally through the foreign currency decree of 1985,” he said.

    A cleric, Venerable Ebenezer Abiala, described the late Ogunbanjo as a man with lots of humour.

    He urged the congregation to learn from the life of service to humanity, which the late Ogunbanjo devoted his life to.

  • What will Baba tell Awo?

    Chief Ayo Adebanjo wondered, to The Guardian of April 21, how Baba Ayo Fasanmi would face Chief Obafemi Awolowo?

    He claimed Senator Fasanmi, an Action Group (AG) “firebrand” of yore, had lost his Awoist verve.

    Still, God sparing his life for many years yet, what would Baba Adebanjo himself tell Awo?

    That after all his Not My Will heroics, against author Olusegun Obasanjo, for his rude anti-Awo remarks in that book, Baba Adebanjo in 2019 merrily queued behind the same Chief Obasanjo, for nothing more than an electoral gambit that pitiably crumbled?

    That if Baba Fasanmi deserved the hottest corner of the Awoist hell, for supporting Muhammadu Buhari, a “Fulani who refused to be exposed” for president; Baba Adebanjo has earned the most blissful of Awoist paradise, for supporting the same Buhari, for whatever reason, in 2007?

    That Baba Adebanjo would push Afenifere, on blind Yoruba sentiments, to near-political harakiri on Obasanjo’s account in 2003; but would grudge the Fulani, allegedly on those same ethnic grounds, from protecting their own Buhari in 2019?  How would the ever-logical Awo take to that?

    And horror of horrors!  That aside being underneath the sheets with Chief Obasanjo, the great Yoruba prodigal, Baba Adebanjo would crow to Awo, how he deployed Afenifere, Awo’s puritanical legacy, as uncompromising pre-court bluff, for Atiku Abubakar!

    The same Atiku who, as Obasanjo’s vice president, publicly brawled with his boss over personal lollies; not over high principles of state?  Wouldn’t Awo have dismissed such as “ojelu” (political parasites) and not “oselu” (politicians), in that devastating Awo pun?

    Yeah, in 2007, Atiku was the presidential candidate of the Action Congress (AC), the party that Baba Bisi Akande chaired; and Asiwaju Bola Tinubu led.

    Ay!  But didn’t Baba Adebanjo already dismiss both Akande and Tinubu as infidels, in his exclusive conclave of holy progressives?

    Yet, in 2007, Adebanjo worked for Buhari (new devil) while Akande/Tinubu worked for Atiku (new saint)!

    Perhaps, zealots and infidels once co-mingled in Baba Adebanjo’s impassioned cosmos of iron-clad saints and sinners!

    All these contradictions just highlight the clear danger of canonizing self and demonizing others, dead or alive; in the rabid piling of cards to sway an argument.  That does grave harm to the integrity — and even utility — of public discourse.

    Besides, tarring personal opponents (most times, in tactics and strategies, not even on core principles), as Yoruba traitors (as Baba Adebanjo did in his The Guardian interview) is rich.

    But even more dangerous: for ideological differences, no matter how sharp, dubbing the Fulani as “Yoruba enemies” (as Baba Femi Okurounmu, another Afenifere elder did, in another interview with The Punch, some two years ago.)

    The formidable Yoruba progressive mainstream (that Chief Adebanjo and Senator Okunroumu seized to inflict their respective ”fatwas”, issued from the titanic battle Chief Awolowo fought against the Hausa-Fulani political forces of his day.

    Sure, Awo had the earliest reversals: the Western Region got the Midwest chopped out of it; while his northern and eastern traducers kept, intact, their respective regions.  He was also gaoled for charges of treasonable felony, a setback that suggested Awo’s dazzling political star would set at noon.

    Even then, before he died, Awo triumphed over his foes.  The first coup, even in his absence, silenced his national enemies; and sentenced his Yoruba traducers, and their offspring, as political pariahs, if not outright lepers.

    The second coup rocketed Awo up to the near-apex of state, under Gen. Yakubu Gowon, as highest-ranked civilian.  Were Awo as ideologically flexible as Dr. Nnamdi Azikiwe, his great political rival, Awo would have embraced, for personal short-term pleasure, Zik’s “diarchy” — a doctrine of military-civilian cohabitation for political power.

    But even the victory Awo never wrought while alive, he commanded after death; with the sheer rigour of his thinking.

    Proof?  About everyone — friend, foe or neither — is buying into “restructuring”; a tie-back to the federalism he enunciated, as far back as 1947, in his Path to Nigerian Freedom.

    It’s the making of the greatest thinker of his era — and perhaps, up till now.  So, if Awo had fought and won all of his wars, why does Baba Adebanjo’s faction of Afenifere always scald everyone, that disagrees with them, with Awoist puritanical blackmail?

    Perhaps it’s the tragic snare of the ideologue, matched against the uneasy perch of the pragmatic?

    The Afenifere grandees, unable to stay relevant in the fast changing political dynamics, cling to old Awo-era tactics, hoping that conjuring up Yoruba-Fulani ethnic bogey would whip everyone into line.

    But the potency or otherwise of that bulldog tactic appears clear.  While the Adebanjo faction wilts by the day, the other blocs: Tinubu/Akande progressives and Hon. Wale Oshun-chaired Afenifere Renewal Group (which Baba trenchantly dubs Afenifere Rebel Group, ARG), appear luxuriating.

    So, does the rival Baba Fasanmi Afenifere “Areopagus” — perhaps stung from quietude, to call the bluff of the Adebanjo faction, especially its excesses, in the name of Awo?

    Well, are all these the wide and merry way that leads to Awoist perdition — as Baba hints in his doomsday interviews?   Or are they the triumph of the progressive, as flexible pragmatic; over the progressive, as fixated ideologue?

    Pragmatism trumping fixation appears Baba Adebanjo’s main grouse with Tinubu’s APC (with Oshun’s ARG and Fasanmi’s Afenifere faction), over their ruling alliance with President Buhari.

    Still, how do you decry Fulani supremacy, yet project Yoruba irredentism?  Strip the Adebanjo group’s “restructuring” campaign of its media fizz and blitz, and its incubus: “I’m more Yoruba than you!” blinds you, with all its arrogant flash!

    Pray, how does haughty ethnic projection help anybody in a fractious polity?

    But even as cavalier Awoist puritanism masks this most swashbuckling ethnic arrogance, Awo’s grandson-in-law, Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, is busy with PMB – the Fulani “feudalist” – planting pro-people and pro-poor policies, in the Nigerian national space: schools feeding programme; Tradermoni and Marketmoni (state credit for the humblest of traders); and conditional cash transfer, to the poorest citizens nationwide.

    These are classic progressive policies that would have warmed Awo’s heart.  Yet the dire verdict from Chief Adebanjo: PYO is “a disgrace” and a “dishonest intellectual”!  The thing though is, spite hardly vitiates the sweetness of honey!

    Afenifere, with all its media loudness, appears unaware of this apocryphal quote, credited to Gen. Gowon: I respect my elders but don’t fear them, for I already know what they can do.  My mates?  We can take care of ourselves.  But those coming after me?  Now, those are the ones I fear!  You never know the heights they’d scale!

    Perhaps with a little elderly humility, the Afenifere would realize why their ranks are thinning out.

    Maybe then, they’d appreciate why the ARG are less apostates to be crushed – as if the grandees could! – but only the natural inheritors of the Awoist legacy; without the ancestral poison of old.

  • ‘Those endorsing Atiku are political jobbers’

    The Buhari Media Organization (BMO) has dismissed the Sunday’s endorsement of the Presidential candidate of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) Atiku Abubakar by a group of regional blocks, describing it as a gathering of ‘shameless exponents of political adventurism.’

    The group said those endorsing the former Vice President are political jobbers, freelance activist and free-wheeling influence peddlers.

    It added it not surprising members of the socio-cultural groups the individuals claimed to be representing have already disowned the purported endorsement.”

    In a statement by its Chairman Niyi Akinsiju and Secretary Cassidy Madueke, the group said: “These are men who in spite of their advanced age are known to be political middlemen who have been out of job in the last three and a half years of the President Buhari administration.

    “That virtually all of them have been disowned by the core membership of the socio-cultural group they are supposed to be representing say a lot about their credibility.

    “One of them Pogo Bitrus, who claimed to be the President of the Middle Belt Forum is from Borno State but is presenting himself as the leader of the umbrella body of the people of North Central Nigeria, as the name suggests.

    Read Also: Endorsement of Atiku, a fraud, says APC

    “It is even on record that Bitrus was the leader of the Chibok community in Abuja but was removed because of his romance with the Jonathan administration at the height of the clamour for the return of the abducted Chibok girls in 2014.

    “As for the Afenifere, it is clear that the duo of Pa Ayo Adebanjo and Yinka Odumakin are using the name as influence-vending franchise on behalf of a group of people they have no mandate to represent”.

    BMO stated the arrowheads of the endorsement are PDP members and sympathisers who were also in the forefront of support for the failed re-election bid of former President Goodluck Jonathan.

    “This purported endorsement, which Atiku Abubakar is already celebrating, is nothing more than a case of party members backing their Presidential candidates by subterfuge, as is usual with the PDP.

    “Only recently we saw the PDP faction of Ohaneze led by John Nwodo endorse Atiku Abubakar, but few days later, the Anambra State Government and Ohaneze Youth Council led the deluge of dissenting voices which insisted that the people of South East should be allowed to vote in line with their conscience.

    “As for Ango Abdullahi, the leadership of the Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF) has questioned his right to speak for and on behalf of the Northern Region.

    “So these so-called Nigerian leaders and elders, led by a known PDP Chieftain, Edwin Clark that claimed they opted for their party’s Presidential candidate because he is ‘capable’, are clearly not representing anybody aside from themselves.

    “And just like in 2015, the fake endorsement is dead on arrival because the people who matter and who heartily received President Buhari at campaign rallies across the country are ready to make their votes count on February 16 by giving him a resounding victory”.

  • Ohaneze, Afenifere leaders parley in Owerri

    Leaders of apex Igbo and Yoruba socio-cultural organisations, Ohanaeze Ndigbo and Afenifere on Monday night met in Owerri, the Imo State capital to forge national unity and peaceful coexistence.

    The groups were led by the respective National Presidents, Chiefs Nnia Nwodo and Ayo Adebanjo.

    Other prominent Igbo sons and daughters were also in attendance.

    Receiving the entourage at the Government House, Imo State Governor Rochas Okorocha charged the Ohaneze leaders to “take the needed steps to ensure that the rest of Nigerians see Ndigbo as part and parcel of them”.

    He added that “until other Nigerians begin to come to Igboland to invest like the Igbo do in other parts of Nigeria, the gap will continue to exist”.

    According to him, “Ohanaeze is a socio-cultural organisation like Afenifere and Arewa. Ohanaeze could relate and marry these organisations and use them to launch the campaign that would truly make other parts of Nigeria to see Igbos as fellow Nigerians in whom they should be well pleased.

    “We are highly misunderstood and until you come to an Igboman’s house you will not know how hospitable he is.”

    Nwodo said: “Ohanaeze is interested in seeing how our people who are in government have fared. We owe it to our people to tell them who has done well and who has not.

    “We can rightfully say that Owelle Rochas Okorocha has done very well in the area of infrastructural transformation of Imo State as Imo has changed greatly and is now appealing to foreign investors.

    “Rochas Foundation during the government of Chief Igariwe promised to build headquarters for Ohanaeze.

    “One would have thought it was a political statement, and sometimes such promises are not fulfilled but not for a man like Governor Okorocha.

    “As I speak to you now, that headquarters is already roofed, tiles have been erected, doors are been fitted.

    “Only three weeks, he removed the roofs of our hall and redesigned the hall. Right now he is giving us a fence better than that of Government House of Imo.

    “Governor Rochas has a very large heart. It will go on record that no Igbo leader has been as generous to Ohanaeze as Rochas Okorocha. I seize this moment to thank him.”

     

  • Atiku, Secondus meet Obasanjo in Abeokuta

    … Seek his blessings, support for Atiku

     

    Former Vice President and Presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party(PDP), Alhaji Atiku Abubakar, on Thursday visited former President Olusegun Obasanjo in Abeokuta, the Ogun State capital, to seek his blessings ahead of the 2019 presidential election in Nigeria.

    Atiku who arrived Obasanjo’s residence within the sprawling Olusegun Obasanjo Presidential Library (OOPL) by 1.09pm with entourage comprising the PDP National Chairman, Uche Secondus, former Governor of Cross River State, Liyel Imoke, Director – General, Atiku Campaign Organisation(ACO), Otunba Gbenga Daniel, Spokesperson of ACO, Segun Sowunmi among others, went into a closed door meeting with his erstwhile boss.

    Atiku’s visit is coming about 48 hours after an elder statesman, Chief Ayo Adebanjo, led a delegation the Afenifere leaders to the Ebora Owu, where the spokesman of the Socio – cultural organisation, Yinka Odunmakin hinted that the Yoruba race in Nigeria would support a presidential candidate with an agenda to restructure the nation’ flawed federation.

    Read Also: Photos: Obasanjo, Atiku, Oyedepo, others meet in Abeokuta

    So far, former Vice – President Atiku had continued to promise Nigerians that he would restructure the country within his first year in office if given the mandate to preside over the affairs of Nigeria.

    Today’s meeting may redefine Obasanjo’s position on Atiku and perhaps, tilt towards supporting him in the 2019 presidential race against the incumbent, President Muhammadu Buhari.

  • Bafarawa backs call for restructuring

    ……Says reasonable northerners will support it

     

    Former governor of Sokoto State, Attahiru Bafarawa, on Monday joined those calling for the restructuring of the country.

    The ex-governor said no reasonable person from the north would oppose the call to restructure the country.

    He stated this after a meeting with elders of the Southern and Middle-Belt Leaders Forum, in Abuja.

    Bafarawa, who is a People’s  Democratic Party (PDP) presidential aspirant, in a statement signed by the Director Media and Publicity, Bafarawa Campaign Organization, Mal Yusuf Abubakar, on Monday, in Abuja, stated that nigerians would enjoy the full dividends of democracy through restructuring.

    He said: “No reasonable northerner will oppose restructuring for national unity. The only way to develop and move the nation forward is through the restructuring, political unity and respect among Nigerians for the success of the polity.”

    Read Also: I will support any PDP presidential aspirant – Bafarawa

    Bafarawa said if elected president, he will be a detribalized leader without bias.

    “I will never in my life tolerate nepotism or impunity under my leadership, as a governor of Sokoto state for eight years, I did not allow my family to interfere or participates in any of the government running so as not to be coerced to issues that are not in my oath to office,” Bafarawa said.

    Those present at the meeting include: Chief Edwin Clark; Afenifere chieftain, Chief Ayo Adebanjo; President-General of Ohanaeze, Chief John Nwodo; and Middle Belt Forum President, Dr Bitrus Pogu.