Afenifere Leader, Pa Ayo Adebanjo, Dies At 96 Leaving Legacy Of Nationalism, Advocacy

Nigeria mourns the death of Chief Samuel Ayodele Adebanjo, a towering figure in Nigerian politics and a leading voice for true federalism, who died peacefully at his home in Lekki, Lagos, this morning, aged 96.

The news, confirmed by a family statement, has sent shockwaves across the country, prompting a flood of grief and tributes from political leaders, community figures, and ordinary citizens alike.

Pa Adebanjo, as he was affectionately known, was more than a politician; he represented an unwavering commitment to justice, equity, and a truly independent Nigeria.

His life spanned critical periods in the country’s history, from the pre-independence nationalist struggles to the current challenges of nation-building.

Adebanjo was born in 1928 and spent his early years immersed in Nigeria’s burgeoning nationalist movement. His legal background, demonstrating his sharp intellect, served as the foundation for his political career.

His involvement with the Action Group (AG), where he served as Organising Secretary, solidified his position at the forefront of Nigeria’s struggle for self-government.

The AG, a major force in pre-independence politics, advocated for regional autonomy and a federal system that acknowledged the nation’s diverse ethnic and cultural makeup. This commitment to federalism remained central to Adebanjo’s political philosophy throughout his life.

His later affiliation with Afenifere, a pan-Yoruba sociopolitical organisation, cemented his position as a staunch advocate for the Yoruba people’s rights and interests, as well as those of the rest of Nigeria.

Within Afenifere, he consistently advocated for a system that emphasised inclusivity, regional autonomy, and subnational resource control.

He was an outspoken critic of policies he saw as undermining the principles of true federalism, frequently engaging in heated debates and advocating for structural reforms in Nigeria’s political landscape.

Beyond his political activism, Pa Adebanjo was admired for his unwavering moral compass. He was a man of impeccable character, known for his honesty and integrity, even when expressing views that contradicted conventional wisdom.

His dedication to fighting for truth, equity, and justice, as expressed poignantly in the family’s announcement, struck a chord with many Nigerians, who saw him as a beacon of hope and a symbol of resistance to oppression and injustice.

His passing creates a void in Nigerian politics that will be difficult to fill.

According to the family statement, plans for a fitting funeral are already in the works, with consultations with Adebanjo’s friends, associates, and various interest groups in Nigeria and around the world.

A condolence book is open at his Lagos residence (8, Ayo Adebanjo Close, Lekki Phase 1, Lagos) and his country home in Isanya Ogbo, near Ijebu Ode, Ogun State.

The legacy of Chief Samuel Ayodele Adebanjo goes far beyond his political accomplishments.

He leaves a lasting impact on Nigerian political discourse, a legacy based on principled activism, unwavering commitment to his beliefs, and a never-ending fight for a more just and equitable Nigeria.

His death marks the end of an era, but his ideas and ideals will continue to motivate future generations of Nigerian patriots. The nation takes a moment to remember a life well lived and a voice that will be greatly missed.