President Bola Tinubu has expressed profound sorrow over the death of Afenifere leader and elder statesman, Pa Ayo Adebanjo, who passed away at the age of 96 on Friday, February 14, in his home in Lekki, Lagos.
In a heartfelt condolence message, Tinubu described Adebanjo as “a fearless advocate for truth, justice, and democracy.” He highlighted Adebanjo’s significant contributions to Nigeria’s political landscape, stating, “His principled voice, which resonated through decades of political activism, will be deeply missed. As a nation, we will miss his regular interventions in national affairs, which enriched our political discourse.”
Adebanjo was recognized by Tinubu as one of the last surviving nationalists, instrumental in shaping Nigeria’s political history. “From his early years 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, Adebanjo remained unwavering in his pursuit of good governance and democratic ideals,” the President noted.
Tinubu also recalled Adebanjo’s pivotal role in the struggle for democracy, particularly his involvement with the National Democratic Coalition after the annulment of the June 12, 1993, presidential election. “In moments of national crisis, Baba’s courage shone brightest. When democracy hung in the balance, he joined NADECO as one of the leading voices against military dictatorship, helping to galvanize a movement that became the bedrock of our collective struggle to reclaim democratic governance,” Tinubu remarked.
Despite their political paths diverging in later years, Tinubu acknowledged a deep personal bond, saying, “I shared a deep personal bond with Baba Adebanjo; he was like a father figure.”
President Tinubu extended his deepest condolences to Adebanjo’s family, the Afenifere leadership, Southwest governors, and all Nigerians who shared in the vision of the late leader. He concluded, “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. May the soul of this great patriot find eternal rest.”