A procession of distinguished figures visited the Lekki residence of the late Afenifere leader, Pa Ayo Adebanjo, to pay their respects following his passing at the age of 96. Among the visitors were former Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate Peter Obi, and the General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God, Pastor Enoch Adeboye.
The atmosphere at Pa Adebanjo’s home was solemn yet reflective, as mourners gathered to honor a man celebrated for his unwavering commitment to justice, equity, and the pursuit of a united Nigeria. His death on Friday, February 14, 2025, marked the end of an era for the pan-Yoruba socio-cultural group, Afenifere, where he had served as a guiding light and steadfast leader.
Former Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, upon arrival, engaged with the family, offering words of comfort and recalling Pa Adebanjo’s enduring legacy. “Pa Adebanjo was a beacon of hope and resilience. His dedication to the Nigerian cause serves as an inspiration to all,” Osinbajo remarked.
Peter Obi, who had previously expressed profound sorrow over Adebanjo’s demise, reiterated his sentiments during his visit. “The nation has lost a pillar in the struggle for a new Nigeria. Pa Adebanjo’s unwavering commitment to fairness and unity has left an indelible mark on our history,” Obi stated. He also recounted his last conversation with the elder statesman, where Adebanjo advised him to “always stand on the path of justice,” words that Obi noted would continue to guide him.
Pastor Enoch Adeboye led a prayer session, seeking divine comfort for the bereaved family and emphasizing the importance of upholding the values that Pa Adebanjo championed throughout his life. “Let us honor his memory by striving for the equitable and just society he envisioned,” Adeboye urged the attendees.
Other notable figures present included former Ogun State Governor Gbenga Daniel, Labour Party’s Lagos State governorship candidate Gbadebo Rhodes-Vivour, and human rights advocate Dele Farotimi. Rhodes-Vivour, in a heartfelt message, described the visit as an opportunity to honor the late statesman and pray for the family’s strength. “Pa Adebanjo lived a full life and was always eager to share his values, vision, and ideology with the next generation. He was a principled man who embodied the ideals of equity, justice, and true federalism,” Rhodes-Vivour reflected.
The outpouring of tributes extended beyond the day’s visitors. Senate President Godswill Akpabio, Enugu State Governor Peter Mbah, and the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, among others, have publicly expressed their condolences, highlighting Pa Adebanjo’s lifelong dedication to democracy and national unity.
The former Governor of Ekiti State, Kayode Fayemi, the apex Igbo socio-cultural organization Ohanaeze Ndigbo, and the Middle Belt Forum also mourned his passing, underscoring the widespread respect he commanded across diverse Nigerian communities.
As the nation reflects on Pa Adebanjo’s monumental contributions, plans for his memorial are underway. Family sources indicate that arrangements will honor his legacy by promoting the principles he held dear, ensuring that his life’s work continues to inspire future generations.
In the words of Peter Obi, “May his death not be in vain. Instead, let it serve as a renewed call to action for all who believe in justice and fairness.” As Nigeria bids farewell to one of its most ardent advocates for equity and unity, the challenge remains to uphold and advance the ideals that Pa Ayo Adebanjo so passionately championed throughout his remarkable life.
