President Bola Tinubu has extended heartfelt condolences to the family of the late Ayo Adebanjo, the respected factional leader of Afenifere, who passed away at the age of 96 on Friday at his residence in Lekki, Lagos.
Adebanjo, a prominent figure in Nigerian politics, leaves behind his wife, Christy Ayo-Adebanjo, aged 94, alongside his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.
In a statement released by the president, Tinubu hailed Adebanjo’s enduring influence, recognizing his “regular interventions in national affairs and decades of political activism.”
The president noted that Adebanjo was a pivotal voice in the fight against military dictatorship, leaving an indelible mark on Nigeria’s democratic journey.
“Baba, as a lawyer, statesman, and politician, stood among the last of a generation of nationalists and independent heroes who shaped the foundation of our country,” the president said.
“A devoted disciple of Chief Obafemi Awolowo, his contributions spanned political eras, from his role as Organising Secretary of the Action Group in the First Republic to his leadership in the Unity Party of Nigeria during the Second Republic.
“In moments of national crisis, Baba’s courage shone brightest. When democracy hung in the balance after the annulment of the June 12, 1993, presidential election, he joined the National Democratic Coalition (NADECO) as one of the leading voices against military dictatorship, helping to galvanise a movement that became the bedrock of our collective struggle to reclaim democratic governance.
“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.”
