Former President Dr. Goodluck Ebele Jonathan and former Vice President, Alhaji Atiku Abubakar have expressed sadness over the death of the leader of the pan-Yoruba socio-cultural organisation, Afenifere, Pa Ayodele Adebanjo, describing the late elder statesman as a symbol of courage and resilience.
In a statement he released on Friday, Dr. Jonathan noted that Chief Adebanjo was a national hero and crusader for justice who continued to advocate for a better society till the very end.
The former President stated: “I extend my deepest condolences to the family, friends, and associates of Chief Ayo Adebanjo, over the passing of the late elder statesman and notable nationalist who died at the age of 96 years.
“Chief Adebanjo was a revered leader of the pan-Yoruba socio-cultural organisation Afenifere and a national hero who dedicated his life to the service of our nation. He was a symbol of resilience and commitment to the good of our society.
“Throughout his life, he championed the cause of the common man, advocating for democracy, good governance, and the rights of all Nigerians for whom he continued to crusade for a better society till the very end.
“His passing is a profound loss to our nation, as he was a man of unwavering principles, courage, and dedication to the ideals of justice, equity, and unity. May God grant his family and loved ones the strength to bear this irreplaceable loss.”
Atiku Abubakar
In his own message, Alhaji Atiku Abubakar said: “I am saddened by the news of the passing away of Chief Ayo Adebanjo, a foremost elder statesman and one of the few remaining nationalists of our country.
The late Afenifere leader was a formidable force and a fearless fighter for justice, equity, and an egalitarian society.
I can vividly recall the heroic role that Pa Adebanjo played in wresting power from the military and enthroning democratic governance in Nigeria. He was at the forefront of the fight against military dictatorship.
It is on record that Pa Adebanjo spent his entire youthful days fighting against colonial rule; spent his middle age to fight against military dictatorship and his latter days to ensure that good governance, rule of law and democracy took firm roots in Nigeria.
I wish to state without equivocation that Pa Adebanjo was a golden example of how to live and die for the good of the country.
Apart from mentoring many generations of civil rights activists across different generations, Pa Adebanjo was an activist extraordinaire and bridge builder who led the battle against injustice and oppression from the trenches
Undoubtedly, the life and times of Adebanjo remain a priceless map for contemporary and upcoming activists, who advocate for good governance to learn and take a cue from.
He taught all of us how to be statesmen of distinction.
My profound condolences go to the Adebanjo family. I admonish them to take solace in the fact that the patriarch who they mourn was a father to the whole country and a pride to the Black race. I also commiserate with the people and government of Ogun State.
I pray for the peaceful repose of the gentle soul of the pioneer nationalist.
