Eminent Nigerians and elder statesmen, including chairman of The Patriots, Pa Emeka Anyaokwu; former National Vice-Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Southwest Zone, Chief ‘Bode George; and one of the leaders of Afenifere, Chief Supo Sonibare, have mourned the passing of elder statesman, Chief Ayo Adebanjo, describing him as an unshakeable believer in the unity and progress of Nigeria.
Pa Adebanjo, a renowned Awoist, died in his Lagos residence on Friday at the age of 96.
Pa Anyaokwu, who paid a condolence visit to the family of the late nonagenarian, described his death as a great loss to the country.
He said, “Pa Adebanjo was an unshakeable believer in the unity and progress of Nigeria through the constitution that ensures equity, inclusiveness, and participatory governance.
“I had a very close association with him in the selection committee of the Obafemi Awolowo Leadership Awards which I am the chairman. He never missed any of the meetings of the committee we had in Ikene, where Chief Obafemi Awolowo came from. He was always there.
“I also had an association with him in a group called The Patriots which I am the chairman. So, I have come to say adieu to a true colossus.”
In a statement issued by the Secretary General of the Afenifere, Sola Ebiseni, the group described the late elder statesman as an avowed Awoist and a progressive.
The statement reads in part, “Afenifere wishes to formally announce the demise early today, February 14, 2025, of our Leader, Chief Ayo Adebanjo, at the age of 96.
“An avowed Awoist and progressive school of thought, Ayo Adebanjo was known for his central stage advocacy of restructuring, true federalism, and a Nigeria of equity, fairness, and a true sense of belonging for its constituent ethnic nationalities.
“For about a decade, Baba had often reminded his followers that at his age, he was already at the “departure lounge” to strengthen us for the continued struggle for a better Nigeria, a country he truly loved. We will undauntedly keep the banner afloat.
“Subsequent statements will be made available as directed by the Deputy Leader, Oba Oladipo Olaitan in consultation with Baba’s immediate family.”
Also, the convener of a regional socio-cultural group, the Southern Youths Development Forum (SYDF), Pastor Bassey James, has described the passing of the Afenifere leader as a great loss to humanity.
James also described Pa Adebanjo as a pillar of wisdom and integrity who served humanity selflessly.
According to him, the elder statesman as a fearless politician and last-standing Awoist who says it as it is, adding that his legacy will continue to endure and inspire generations.
He said, “The late elder statesman was a great Awoist. He was a fearless and distinct politician and a crusader of egalitarian society and good governance. He will be greatly missed.
“As a politician, Pa Adebanjo played a politics of character, dignity and without bitterness.
“He never compromised the principles of the late sage, Pa Obafemi Awolowo which he held to until he breathe his last. Pa Adebanjo was a social justice crusader who fought for the unity and welfare of the masses. He was truthful and honest to a fault. The unity of Nigeria was so dear to his heart and God has used him to add value to the Yoruba race and humanity as a whole.
“We are happy he led a faithful and fulfilled life. His death is a major loss to humanity. We at the South Youth Development Forum console the family and we pray God grant them the courage to bear the loss.”
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