The president of the Federal Rebuplic of Nigeria, Bola Ahmed Tinubu has Expressed sorrow over the passing away of one of Afenifere leaders, Pa Ayo Adebanjo who died on the 14th February 2025 at his residence in Lekki, Lagos.
Tinubu described the late nationalist as “a devoted disciple of Chief Obafemi Awolowo” whose “contributions spanned political eras, from his role as Organising Secretary of the Action Group in the First Republic to his leadership in the Unity Party of Nigeria during the Second Republic.”
The President exalted the contribution of the former Afenifere leaders in a statement stating: “Nigeria has lost a political leader whose decades of unwavering struggle for justice, democracy, and national unity have left an indelible mark on our nation’s history.
“In moments of national crisis, Baba’s courage shone brightest. When democracy hung in the balance after the annulment of the June 12, 1993 presidential election, he joined the National Democratic Coalition (NADECO) as one of the leading voices against military dictatorship, helping to galvanise a movement that became the bedrock of our collective struggle to reclaim democratic governance.”
He disclosed that Pa Adebanjo was an instrumental cause in his political journey, revealing he played a father figure role as well in his life.
“His unwavering commitment to truth and justice extended to my journey as a governorship candidate in 1999. Baba Adebanjo’s steadfast support was instrumental in my election as Governor of Lagos State under the platform of the Alliance for Democracy.
“Though our political paths diverged in later years, my respect and admiration for him never wavered. Until his death, I shared a deep personal bond with Baba Adebanjo, he was like a father figure.”
The president prayed for the repose soul of the dead and extended condolences to the bereaved family
“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, and may his ideals, which he so passionately envisioned, forever resonate in our country.”
The 96 year-old was a lawyer, statesman, and politician, who “stood among the last of a generation of nationalists and independent heroes who shaped the foundation of our country.”
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