Korede Abdullah in Lagos
Ogun State Governor, Dapo Abiodun, has expressed deep sorrow over the passing of Ayo Adebanjo, a renowned nationalist, elder statesman, and leader of the Pan-Yoruba socio-cultural group, Afenifere.
Adebanjo passed away on Friday at his residence in Lekki, Lagos State, at the age of 96. Governor Abiodun described his passing as the end of a glorious era, noting that Adebanjo was a man of principle and a prominent disciple of the sage, Obafemi Awolowo.
According to Abiodun, Adebanjo’s death is a profound loss to Nigeria, and the government and people of Ogun State could not have wished for a more glorious end for the unblemished apostle of federalism, good governance, and the defense of Yoruba interests.
Abiodun stated, “To all intents and purposes, Chief Ayo Adebanjo represented the finest of Ogun State and Nigeria as a whole, and his ideals will never be forgotten.”
He also praised Adebanjo’s integrity, saying, “It does not matter where you stand in the political terrain: Adebanjo was a man whose integrity you could not question.”
Abiodun highlighted Adebanjo’s remarkable life, from his activist beginnings in 1943 as a follower of Dr. Nnamdi Azikiwe to his activities as a member of the youth wing of the Action Group in 1951.
He noted that Adebanjo never refrained from being a voice of courage and a force for good, particularly in his advocacy for federalism.
Abiodun added, “We are still coming to terms with the reality of his passing, but let us just note that we are profoundly grateful to the Almighty God for giving us such a gem in Ogun State. He will be sorely missed.”
He said Adebanjo’s legacy as a fearless advocate for justice, federalism, and Yoruba interests will undoubtedly be remembered for generations to come.
