Pan-Yoruba socio-political group, Afenifere, has vowed to undauntedly keep afloat the banner left behind by its late leader, Chief Ayo Adebanjo, describing the elder statesman, who died early hours of Friday at the age of 96, as an avowed Awoist and progressive school of thought known for his central stage advocacy of restructuring and true Federalism.
Afenifere gave this vow in a release titled: “Ajànàkú sùn bi òkè!!!” and signed by its Secretary General, Sola Ebiseni, recalling that the late Afenifere leader, also known for his advocacy of a Nigeria of equity, fairness and true sense of belonging for its constituent ethnic nationalities, had for about a decade, while alive, often reminded his followers that at his age, he was already at the “departure lounge.”
According to Afenifere, the late elder statesman often harped on such statements “to strengthen us for the continued struggle for a better Nigeria, a country he truly loved.”
“The Afenifere wishes to formally announce the demise early today, the 14th of February 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 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,” Afenifere said.
Meanwhile, the pan-Yoruba socio-political group, Afenifere, has said subsequent statements will be made available to the public, as directed by its Deputy Leader, Oba Oladipo Olaitan, in consultation with the Late Chief Ayo Adebanjo’s immediate family.
“Subsequent statements will be made available as directed by the Deputy Leader, Oba Oladipo Olaitan in consultation with Baba’s immediate family,” Afenifere said.
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