Pastor Adeboye, Yemi Osinbajo, Emeka Anyaoku, Peter Obi, Others Visit Late Pa Adebanjo’s Home
By Trek Africa Newspaper
Former Governor, Cross Rivers State, Donald Duke; former Ogun State Governor, Senator Gbenga Daniel; Lagos State Labour Party governorship candidate, Gbadebo Rhodes-Vivour; and human rights advocate, Dele Farotimi
A host of political and religious leaders gathered on Sunday to honor the late Ayo Adebanjo, the revered leader of the pan-Yoruba socio-cultural group, Afenifere. Among the notable figures who visited his residence to pay their respects were General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God, Pastor Enoch Adeboye; Former Commonwealth Secretary General, Chief Emeka Anyaoku; former Vice President Yemi Osinbajo; Labour Party’s presidential candidate in the 2023 election, Peter Obi.
Also present were former Ogun State governor, Senator Gbenga Daniel; Former Governor of Cross River State, Donald Duke; former Deputy Governor of Lagos State, Chief Mrs Kofoworola Bucknor-Akerele; Chief Shonibare; Lagos State Labour Party governorship candidate, Gbadebo Rhodes-Vivour; and human rights advocate, Dele Farotimi. Their visit underscored the profound impact Adebanjo had on Nigeria’s socio-political landscape, particularly in championing Yoruba interests and advocating for good governance.
Adebanjo, a staunch advocate of democracy and progressive ideals, was widely respected for his unwavering commitment to justice and national unity. His passing marks the end of an era, leaving behind a legacy of principled leadership that continues to inspire generations.
Rhodes-Vivour, in a post on 𝕏, wrote, “Earlier today, we joined the Adebanjo family in thanksgiving and prayers for God’s comfort and strength for the family.
“Pa Adebanjo lived a full life and was always excited to share his values, vision, and ideology with the next generation. He was a principled man who embodied the ideals of equity, justice, and true federalism. We celebrate a life of impact, lived to the fullest.”
Following the passing of Afenifere leader Ayo Adebanjo at the age of 96 on Friday at his Lekki residence in Lagos, tributes have continued to pour in from across the nation.
Prominent figures, including President Bola Ahmed Tinubu; President of the 10th Senate, Godswill Akpabio; Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwon-Olu; Enugu State Governor, Peter Mbah; and the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, have expressed their condolences, acknowledging Adebanjo’s immense contributions to Nigeria’s socio-political development.
Similarly, former Ekiti State Governor, Kayode Fayemi; the apex Igbo socio-cultural group, Ohanaeze Ndigbo; and the Middle Belt Forum have joined in mourning his loss, recognizing his tireless advocacy for democracy, justice, and regional unity.
Adebanjo’s passing marks the end of an era for Yoruba nationalism and progressive politics in Nigeria, leaving behind a legacy of unwavering commitment to equity, good governance, and national cohesion. His influence will continue to shape the country’s political discourse for generations to come.
More importantly, Peter Obi has described the passing of Pa Ayo Adebanjo as a significant loss to Nigeria, honoring him as a tireless advocate for unity, equity, and progress.
Reflecting on Adebanjo’s unwavering commitment to national cohesion, Obi expressed deep gratitude for the elder statesman’s support during his presidential campaign. “His endorsement was more than a political statement—it was a reflection of his deep-seated belief in justice, fairness, and inclusiveness,” Obi remarked. “He remained steadfast in his convictions, undeterred by challenges, always prioritizing the greater good of Nigeria.”
Obi urged that Adebanjo’s passing should not be in vain but should serve as an inspiration for renewed dedication to justice and equity. Extending his sympathies to Adebanjo’s family and the Afenifere organization, he emphasized that the late statesman’s legacy would endure through the ideals he championed.
Pa Ayo Adebanjo, a formidable voice in Nigerian politics, spent his life advocating for restructuring and true federalism. A staunch defender of Yoruba interests and national unity, he remained a key figure in shaping Nigeria’s democratic discourse.
