Nigeria is mourning the loss of Afenifere chieftain, Pa Ayo Adebanjo, who passed away peacefully at his Lekki residence in Lagos on Friday, February 14, 2025, at the age of 96.
The elder statesman’s death was announced by his family in a statement, which described his life as “selfless” and dedicated to the service of God, nation, and humanity.
According to the statement, Adebanjo is survived by his 94-year-old wife, Chief Christy Ayo-Adebanjo, children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. The family praised his commitment to fighting for truth, equity, and justice, saying, “His belief and struggle for a truly independent and progressive Nigeria was total, and this he fought for until he breathed his last breath.”
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, former presidents Olusegun Obasanjo and Muhammadu Buhari, state governors, and various groups have paid tribute to Adebanjo, acknowledging his pivotal role in shaping Nigeria’s political landscape. President Tinubu described his death as “an immense loss to Nigeria,” highlighting his decades-long struggle for justice, democracy, and national unity.
“Nigeria has lost a political leader whose decades of unwavering struggle for justice, democracy and national unity have left an indelible mark on our nation’s history,” President Tinubu said. “In moments of national crisis, Baba’s courage shone brightest.”
