After the death of Elder statesman and Afenifere Leader, Chief Ayo Adebanjo, who passed away peacefully on Friday, February 14, 2025, at his Lekki residence in Lagos, a family source revealed that Adebanjo had been battling ill health for some time.
Despite initial hopes for recovery, his condition declined, leading him to cease eating solid foods and rely solely on liquids.
He ultimately passed away peacefully in his sleep.
Known for his unwavering principles, Adebanjo’s recent efforts included championing the implementation of the 2014 national conference recommendations and advocating for the South-East, through Mr. Peter Obi, to assume the presidency after President Muhammadu Buhari’s tenure in 2023, aiming to promote equity and harmony in Nigeria.
His death has prompted an outpouring of grief and tributes from various quarters, including President Bola Tinubu, former Presidents Olusegun Obasanjo, Muhammadu Buhari, and Goodluck Jonathan, as well as Governors Seyi Makinde (Oyo), Biodun Oyebanji (Ekiti), and Dapo Abiodun (Ogun). Organizations such as Afenifere, The Patriots, and the Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF) have also expressed their condolences.
In a statement, his children—Mrs. Ayotunde Atteh, Mrs. Adeola Azeez, and Mr. Obafemi Ayo-Adebanjo—announced his passing and highlighted his lifelong commitment to truth, equity, and justice.
They noted that funeral arrangements are underway and will be communicated in due course.
Adebanjo, a lawyer by profession, served as the organizing secretary of the Action Group (AG) and is survived by his 94-year-old wife, Chief Christy Ayo-Adebanjo, along with children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.
President Bola Tinubu expressed deep sorrow over Adebanjo’s passing, acknowledging his decades-long struggle for justice, democracy, and national unity.
Tinubu noted that Adebanjo’s principled voice and regular contributions to national discourse will be profoundly missed.
Former President Goodluck Jonathan described Adebanjo as a symbol of courage and resilience, emphasizing his unwavering dedication to a better society.
Similarly, PANDEF, through its National Chairman, Ambassador Godknows Igali, mourned Adebanjo as a legendary icon who championed justice, equality, and freedom throughout his 96 years.
Former President Olusegun Obasanjo paid tribute to Adebanjo, characterizing him as a committed nationalist and an effective representative of his people.
Obasanjo recalled his recent visit to Adebanjo on February 3, 2025, expressing shock at his sudden passing.
Afenifere, in a statement by its Secretary General, Sola Ebiseni, pledged to uphold Adebanjo’s legacy, describing him as a steadfast advocate for restructuring, true federalism, and a Nigeria founded on equity and fairness.
Former President Muhammadu Buhari highlighted Adebanjo’s multifaceted contributions as a lawyer, politician, and socio-cultural activist, noting that his death represents a significant loss to the nation.
Mr. Akin Osuntokun, former Political Adviser to Ex-President Obasanjo, reflected on the substantial void left by Adebanjo’s demise, urging those he mentored to rise to the occasion and continue his legacy.
Governor ‘Seyi Makinde of Oyo State likened Adebanjo’s death to the fall of a mighty Iroko tree, commending his unwavering commitment to democracy, justice, and equality. Iba Gani Adams, the Aareonakakanfo of Yorubaland, described Adebanjo’s passing as a monumental loss, emphasizing his role as a courageous and uncompromising leader.
Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, stated that Adebanjo’s death signifies the end of a glorious era, praising his principled stance and dedication to good governance.
The Patriots, through Secretary General Chief Wale Okunniyi, expressed their intention to immortalize Adebanjo’s legacies, acknowledging his forthrightness and consistency in advocating for a better Nigeria.
