By Joke Kujenya
FOLLOWING THE announcement of Chief Ayo Adebanjo’s passing, tributes have poured in for the nationalist and elder statesman.
He was the leader of the Pan-Yoruba socio-cultural group Afenifere, who had remained unwavering in his pursuit of justice, equity, and good governance, earning recognition for his steadfast principles.
Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun described Adebanjo’s death as the end of a glorious era.
In a statement issued in Abeokuta, he called him a man of principle and one of the most devoted disciples of the late Chief Obafemi Awolowo.
Abiodun noted that Adebanjo’s legacy as an advocate of federalism and defender of Yoruba interests placed him above many of his contemporaries.
“Chief Ayo Adebanjo represented the finest of Ogun State and Nigeria as a whole, and his ideals will never be forgotten,” Abiodun said.
He highlighted Adebanjo’s activism, from his early days in 1943 as a follower of Dr. Nnamdi Azikiwe to his role in the Action Group youth wing in 1951.
He also recalled Adebanjo’s trials during Nigeria’s political upheavals, his resistance against military rule, and his participation in constitutional conferences to shape Nigerian federalism.
Abiodun described the late statesman as a fearless critic of governance who never hesitated to hold leaders accountable.
“He lived through the finest and ugliest moments of Nigerian history, was hounded for his beliefs, and was even exiled for resisting autocracy and the suppression of the masses,” he added.
Akpabio Also Mourns
Senate President Godswill Akpabio also expressed sorrow over Adebanjo’s passing, calling it the end of an era.
In a personally signed statement, he described Adebanjo as a selfless patriot whose dedication to truth, justice, and equity left an indelible mark on Nigeria’s history.
“His leadership and vision inspired generations, and his legacy will continue to motivate us to work towards a more just and equitable society,” Akpabio said.
He extended condolences to Adebanjo’s family, Afenifere members, and the people of Ogun State, praying for strength to bear the loss.
Adebanjo, died yesterday at 96 in his Lekki, Lagos residence as a key figure in Nigeria’s independence struggle and remained vocal in national affairs.
His advocacy for restructuring and true federalism resonated widely, making him one of Nigeria’s most respected political voices.
Top government officials described his passing as one that marks the close of a significant chapter in the country’s political history as they reflected on his contributions to democracy, regional autonomy, and social justice.
