A regional socio-cultural group, the Southern Youths Development Forum (SYDF) has described the passing of the leader of Afenifere, Pa Ayo Adebanjo, as a great loss to the Yoruba nation, Nigeria and humanity at large.
Pa Adebanjo died on Friday in Lagos at the age of 96.
Convener of the group, Pastor Bassey James, described the late nonagenarian as a pillar of wisdom and integrity who served humanity selflessly.
According to him, the elder statesman was a fearless politician and last standing Awoist who says it as it is.
He added 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.”
ALSO READ FROM NIGERIAN TRIBUNE
Chief Adebanjo was a remarkable nationalist — Awolowo Dosumu
and then