A prominent leader of Afenifere, the pan-Yoruba socio-cultural organisation, Pa Ayo Adebanjo, died at 96. He died peacefully on Friday, February 14, 2025, at his Lekki, Lagos State residence.
The family confirmed his passing in a statement made available to newsmen on Friday.
“He died peacefully this morning, Friday, February 14, 2025, at his Lekki, Lagos, Nigeria home at the age of 96,” the statement read.
Adebanjo, a distinguished lawyer, former organising secretary of the Action Group, and national leader of the Yoruba socio-cultural group Afenifere, is survived by his 94-year-old wife, Chief Christy Ayo-Adebanjo, along with his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.
“We will forever cherish his commitment to fighting for truth, equity, and justice. His belief and struggle for a truly independent and progressive Nigeria was total, and this he fought for until he breathed his last breath,” the statement added.
The family also disclosed that consultations are ongoing with Adebanjo’s friends, associates, and various interest groups across Nigeria and beyond to finalise plans for a befitting funeral. Details of the funeral arrangements will be announced in due course.
A condolence register has been opened at his residence at 8 Ayo Adebanjo Close, Lekki Phase 1, Lagos, and his country home in Isanya Ogbo, near Ijebu Ode, Ogun State.
Mrs Ayotunde Atteh (nee Ayo-Adebanjo), Mrs Adeola Azeez (nee Ayo-Adebanjo), and Mr Obafemi Ayo-Adebanjo signed the statement on behalf of the family.
Makinde, Falae Mourn Afenifere leader
Oyo State governor, ‘Seyi Makinde, has likened the death of a prominent leader of the pan-Yoruba sociopolitical organisation, Afenifere, Pa Ayo Adebanjo, to the fall of a mighty Iroko tree in the forest.
Governor Makinde, who described Pa Adebanjo’s death as the end of an era, commended him for being a great nationalist, federalist, patriot, and true democrat who gave his all to make Nigeria a better country.
Former Secretary to the Government of the Federation, SFG, Chief Olu Falae, has described the late Afenifere leader, PA Ayo Adebanjo, as the last Mohicans who lived a good life.
Vanguard reports Falae said, “He is one of the last Mohicans, and those of us who are his contemporaries will continue with his integrity and steadfastness in support of what is right.”
