President Bola Tinubu, former President Muhammadu Buhari, and the 2023 Labour Party (LP) presidential candidate, Peter Obi, have expressed deep sorrow over the passing of Afenifere chieftain Ayo Adebanjo.
In separate statements, they described Adebanjo’s death as a profound loss to Nigeria.
The New Daily Prime earlier reported that Adebanjo passed away on Friday at the age of 96.
Tinubu said he received the news with immense sadness, emphasising that Nigeria had lost a political icon whose decades-long struggle for justice, democracy, and national unity had left an enduring legacy.
He noted that those who knew Adebanjo drew wisdom from him and deeply valued the democratic principles he championed throughout his life.
“His principled voice, which resonated through decades of political activism, will be deeply missed. As a nation, we will miss his regular interventions in national affairs, which enriched our political discourse.
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“Though we mourn his departure, we are also grateful to God for blessing him with a long, remarkable, purposeful life—96 years of unrelenting advocacy for progress and equity.
He described the lawyer, statesman, and politician as one of the last remaining nationalists and independence heroes who laid the foundation of our country.
Tinubu noted that Adebanjo’s courage shone brightest during moments of national crisis.
He recalled that when democracy was at risk following the annulment of the June 12, 1993, presidential election, Adebanjo emerged as a leading voice against military dictatorship by joining the National Democratic Coalition (NADECO).
According to him, the late Adebanjo played a pivotal role in galvanizing a movement that became the bedrock of the collective struggle to reclaim democracy.
“His unwavering commitment to truth and justice extended to my journey as a governorship candidate in 1999. Baba Adebanjo’s steadfast support was instrumental in my election as Governor of Lagos State under the platform of the Alliance for Democracy.
“Though our political paths diverged in later years, my respect and admiration for him never wavered. Until his death, I shared a deep personal bond with Baba Adebanjo; he was like a father figure. I extend my heartfelt condolences to his family, the Afenifere family, the governors of the Southwest, past and present, and all Nigerians who shared his vision.
“Let us take solace in the enduring legacy of a man who dedicated his life to the service of others—a legacy that will continue to inspire generations to come. May the soul of this great patriot find eternal rest, and may his ideals, which he so passionately envisioned, forever resonate in our country.”
Buhari, in a statement by his spokesperson Garba Shehu, described Adebanjo as a distinguished political figure whose legacy spanned law, politics, and socio-cultural activism.
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Expressing his condolences, Buhari extended sympathies to Adebanjo’s family, admirers, and the people and government of Ogun State.
He also prayed for the peaceful repose of the deceased and strength for those mourning his passing.
Similarly, Obi, former Anambra State governor a post on his X page, hailed Adebanjo as a formidable pillar in the struggle for a new Nigeria.
The 63-year-old described his death as a profound loss to the nation and all who uphold justice, equity, and truth.
Obi further noted that as the leader of Afenifere, Adebanjo remained a steadfast advocate for a united and progressive Nigeria.
“My family and the Obidient Movement extend our deepest condolences to the family and the Afenifere organization. His unwavering commitment to fairness and his relentless pursuit of a better nation have left an indelible mark on our country’s history.
“One thing my political journey in life taught me, for which I am eternally grateful to God is bringing me close to a few great minds who helped to shape my perception of this land as a great country. One such person is Pa Ayo Adebanjo, the quintessential Afenifere leader.
“I remain deeply grateful for his support during my presidential campaign. His endorsement was not merely a political gesture but a testament to his belief in the ideals of equity and inclusiveness. He stood firm in his convictions against all odds demonstrating his dedication to the greater good of Nigeria.
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“The last time I spoke with him, his words left a lasting impression: “Always stand on the path of justice.” That advice remains a guiding principle in my life, and I reaffirm my commitment to upholding it in honour of his memory. In my association with Pa Adebanjo, I come to appreciate Nelson Mandela’s words, “I like friends who have independent minds because they tend to make you see problems from all angles.
“As we mourn his departure, let us also celebrate a life well-lived in service to humanity and commit ourselves to upholding the values he so passionately championed.
“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 we extend our condolences to his immediate family and the Afenifere organization, may we find solace in the enduring impact of his remarkable life”, Obi wrote.
