Chief Ayo Adebanjo, the charismatic leader of the Yoruba socio-political group, Afenifere, passed away at 96. His family announced his death in a statement on Friday.
“With a heart full of gratitude for a selfless life spent in the service of God, the nation, and humanity, we announce the passing of our beloved patriarch, Chief Samuel Ayodele Adebanjo,” the statement, signed by Obafemi Ayo-Adebanjo on behalf of the family, read.
According to the family, the elder statesman died peacefully on the morning of Friday, February 14, 2025, at his residence in Lekki, Lagos.
Adebanjo, a renowned nationalist, was a distinguished lawyer, politician, and former Organising Secretary of the Action Group. Until his death, he was the national leader of Afenifere, a position through which he championed the cause of democracy, good governance, and Yoruba interests.
He is survived by his 94-year-old wife, Chief Christy Ayo-Adebanjo, as well as children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.
“We will forever cherish his commitment to truth, equity, and justice. His belief in and struggle for a truly independent and progressive Nigeria was unwavering, and he fought for these ideals until his last breath,” the family statement added.
An Iroko has fallen: Makinde mourns
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 for Nigeria to be a better country.
Describing Adebanjo as a father of all, Governor Makinde expressed his condolences to the immediate family of the late Afenifere leader, the Afenifere, the Government and people of Ogun State and the entire South-West people.
