P rominent Nigerian leaders, including President Bola Tinubu, former Presidents Muhammadu Buhari and Olusegun Obasanjo, and Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, Peter Obi, have expressed deep sorrow over the passing of Afenifere leader, Pa Ayodele Adebanjo.
The revered statesman, a lifelong advocate for true federalism and national restructuring, passed away at the age of 96 at his Lekki, Lagos residence. His family confirmed the news in a statement on Friday.
Tinubu Pays Tribute to a ‘Father Figure’
President Tinubu, in a personal statement, described Adebanjo as a political icon whose relentless fight for democracy, justice, and national unity left a lasting impact on Nigeria’s history.
“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,” Tinubu remarked.
Obasanjo: Adebanjo Was a Nationalist and Patriot
Former President Obasanjo praised Adebanjo as a committed nationalist and an unpretentious leader who rendered selfless service to his community and Nigeria.
“He will be remembered as a statesman who saw politics as an avenue for service rather than personal enrichment,” Obasanjo said. He lamented that Adebanjo did not live to see his dream of a restructured Nigeria come to fruition.
Buhari: A Loss to the Nation
In a statement issued by his spokesperson, Garba Shehu, former President Buhari described Adebanjo’s death as a significant loss, acknowledging his immense contributions to the legal, political, and socio-cultural landscape of Nigeria.
Obi: A Champion of Justice and Equity
Labour Party’s Peter Obi highlighted Adebanjo’s unwavering advocacy for fairness and national progress.
“His endorsement of my presidential campaign was not just political but a testament to his commitment to equity and inclusiveness,” Obi noted. He described Adebanjo’s death as a profound loss to Nigeria.
Southwest Governors, Afenifere Leaders Mourn
Ondo State Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa and Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun hailed Adebanjo as a principled advocate of democracy. Aiyedatiwa emphasized Adebanjo’s dedication to justice and equality, while Abiodun noted that he was a living chronicle of Nigeria’s political evolution.
Similarly, Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde likened Adebanjo’s passing to the fall of an Iroko tree, calling him a federalist and true democrat who fought for a better Nigeria.
Afenifere leader, Pa Reuben Fasoranti, described Adebanjo as a “patriot par excellence” whose efforts in Nigeria’s independence and democracy struggles would never be forgotten.
Yoruba Leaders Honor an ‘Iroko’
Yoruba leaders, including the Aare Onakakanfo of Yorubaland, Iba Gani Adams, and rights activist Joe Okei-Odumakin, echoed sentiments of grief. Adams called Adebanjo an “Iroko” whose voice resonated across Nigeria, while Okei-Odumakin noted that his absence would be deeply felt beyond the Yoruba nation.
Pa Ayodele Adebanjo’s passing marks the end of an era in Nigeria’s political history. His relentless advocacy for democracy and restructuring leaves an indelible legacy that will be remembered for generations to come.
0 Comments