President Bola Tinubu has expressed deep sorrow over the passing of Afenifere leader and elder statesman, Pa Ayo Adebanjo, describing him as a fearless advocate for truth, justice, and democracy.
Adebanjo, a prominent Yoruba leader and nationalist, passed away peacefully at his home in Lekki, Lagos, on Friday, February 14, at the age of 96, according to a statement issued by his family.
In a personal condolence message released on Friday, Tinubu paid tribute to Adebanjo’s legacy, acknowledging his lifelong commitment to Nigeria’s progress and national unity.
“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,” Tinubu said.
The President described Adebanjo as one of the last surviving nationalists who played a crucial role 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.”
Tinubu recalled Adebanjo’s courageous stance during the struggle for the restoration of democracy in Nigeria, particularly his role in the National Democratic Coalition following 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 stated.
The President also acknowledged Adebanjo’s role in his political journey, particularly during his election as the Governor of Lagos State in 1999 under the Alliance for Democracy.
While noting that their political paths diverged in later years, Tinubu emphasized that his respect and admiration for Adebanjo never wavered.
“I shared a deep personal bond with Baba Adebanjo; he was like a father figure,” Tinubu said.
The President extended his condolences to Adebanjo’s family, the Afenifere leadership, governors of the Southwest, and all Nigerians who shared in the late leader’s vision for a better country.
“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,” Tinubu concluded.
His burial arrangements are expected to be announced by his family in the coming days.
