President Bola Tinubu has expressed profound sorrow over the passing of Pa Ayo Adebanjo, a prominent leader of the pan-Yoruba socio-cultural organisation, Afenifere.
In a statement personally signed by him, President Tinubu remarked, “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.”
LEADERSHIP recalls that Adebanjo died peacefully this morning, Friday, February 14, 2025, at his Lekki, Lagos, Nigeria home at the age of 96.”
Reflecting on Adebanjo’s legacy, Tinubu noted, “All who knew Baba Adebanjo drew from his boundless wisdom and cherished the democratic ideals he tirelessly campaigned for.”
Highlighting his extensive political journey, Tinubu stated, “As a lawyer, statesman, and politician, Adebanjo stood among the last of a generation of nationalists and independence heroes who shaped the foundation of our country.”
He further emphasised the Afenifere leader’s pivotal roles, from serving as the Organising Secretary of the Action Group in the First Republic to his leadership in the Unity Party of Nigeria during the Second Republic.
“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, helping to galvanise a movement that became the bedrock of our collective struggle to reclaim democratic governance.”
Tinubu also reflected on their personal relationship, stating, “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.”
Despite political divergences in later years, Tinubu affirmed, “Though our political paths diverged in later years, my respect and admiration for him never wavered. Until his death, I shared a deep personal bond with Baba Adebanjo; he was like a father figure.”
Extending his condolences, the President said, “I extend my heartfelt condolences to his family, the Afenifere family, the governors of the Southwest, past and present, and all Nigerians who shared his vision.”
He urged the nation to find solace in Adebanjo’s enduring legacy, stating, “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.”
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