Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has expressed sadness at the news of the passing of Chief Ayo Adebanjo, a foremost elder statesman and one of the few remaining nationalists of our country.
In a statement on Friday, he described the late Afenifere leader as a formidable force and a fearless fighter for justice, equity, and an egalitarian society.
“I can vividly recall the heroic role that Pa Adebanjo played in wresting power from the military and enthroning democratic governance in Nigeria. He was at the forefront of the fight against military dictatorship,” he said.
He recalled that Pa Adebanjo spent his entire youthful days fighting against colonial rule; spent his middle age to fight against military dictatorship and his latter days to ensure that good governance, rule of law and democracy took firm roots in Nigeria.
“I wish to state without equivocation that Pa Adebanjo was a golden example of how to live and die for the good of the country.
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“Apart from mentoring many generations of civil rights activists across different generations, Pa Adebanjo was an activist extraordinaire and bridge builder who led the battle against injustice and oppression from the trenches,” Atiku said.
The former Vice President noted that Pa Adebanjo’s life and times remain a priceless map for contemporary and upcoming activists, who advocate for good governance to learn and take a cue from.
Noting that the late NADECO leader “taught all of us how to be statesmen of distinction,” he expressed profound condolences to the Adebanjo family.
He admonished them to take solace in the fact that the patriarch who they mourn was a father to the whole country and a pride to the Black race. I also commiserate with the people and government of Ogun State.
He prayed for the peaceful repose of the gentle soul of the pioneer nationalist.
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