By Kolawole Ojebisi
President Bola Tinubu, along with other dignitaries, including former Presidents Olusegun Obasanjo and Goodluck Jonathan, and former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, have paid heartfelt tributes to the late pan-Yoruba socio-political organisation, Afenifere, leader, Chief Ayo Adebanjo, who passed away on February 14, 2025, at the age of 97.
These eminent Nigerians showered the departed elderstateman with encomiums at a Night of Tributes and Service of Songs held at Edo Hotel and Suites on Wednesday night.
Tinubu in his tribute sent to the family described Adebanjo as one of the last remaining nationalists and independence heroes who helped shape Nigeria’s foundation.
“The nation has lost a political leader whose decades-long struggle for democracy and unity left an indelible mark,” Tinubu said.
He praised Adebanjo as a principled lawyer, statesman, and devout disciple of Chief Obafemi Awolowo, who stood firm in the face of national crises especially during the annulment of the June 12, 1993, election.
Tinubu recalled Adebanjo’s critical support during his 1999 Lagos State governorship bid, describing him as a steady voice for justice and equity.
Former President Obasanjo, represented by Senator Ibikunle Amosun, described Adebanjo as a foremost nationalist and patriot.
He recalled visiting him on February 3, just days before his passing. “Though frail, I never expected he would leave so soon,” Obasanjo said. “We often disagreed politically, but we both shared a commitment to national progress, justice, and restructuring.
His thoughts went beyond partisanship. His dream of a restructured Nigeria still lights the path forward.”
In his tribute, former President Jonathan hailed Adebanjo as a national hero and a symbol of resilience.
“He was a man of principle and courage who stood for democracy and the rights of ordinary Nigerians,” Jonathan said. “His passing is a great loss to the nation.”
On his part, Atiku described Adebanjo as“a fearless elder statesman and one of Nigeria’s last true nationalists.”
“He spent his youth fighting colonialism, his middle years opposing military rule, and his later life championing democracy and good governance. He was a tireless force for justice.”
The President of the African Development Bank, Akinwumi Adesina, also described Adebanjo as an “indomitable statesman” and a mentor who spoke truth fearlessly.
“I saw him as a father figure. Even at 95, he showed up at the Awolowo Prize for Leadership ceremony to support me. That moment touched me deeply,” Adesina said.
The 2023 Labour Party presidential candidate, Mr. Peter Obi, also paid tribute though his remarks focused on a late Adebanjo, whom he described as a man of courage, truth, and service.
“We are here to honour a man who lived a life of integrity and value,” Obi said. “He cared deeply about policies affecting the common man and constantly challenged me to explain how each proposal would impact Nigerians.”
Obi shared how Adebanjo confronted him about delays in releasing his presidential campaign manifesto.
“He called me and said, ‘You’re delaying the manifesto.’ I told him, ‘Father, I want to ensure everything in it is implementable.’ He agreed with that approach.”
Reflecting on his time as Anambra State governor, Obi stressed the importance of delivering on promises.
“I did everything I said I would do, even if it took time. Leadership must focus on the people, not wealth or power,” he added, lamenting the culture of materialism among some public figures.
Also former Education Minister, Oby Ezekwesili, described Chief Adebanjo as a revolutionary figure who always spoke the truth with boldness.
“He was a man of character whose life is worth emulating,” she said.
Former Director-General of the Securities and Exchange Commission, Arunma Oteh, described him as a patriotic mentor, who led with integrity and compassion.
“He believed Nigeria works best when united, and that leadership must be grounded in character and competence,” Oteh said.
Aliko Dangote, President of Dangote Group, praised Adebanjo’s relentless push for true federalism.
“His courage and belief in a just, egalitarian Nigeria will continue to inspire generations,” Dangote said.
In a sermon titled “Lord, Make Me to Know Mine End, and the Measure of My Days,” Pastor Tunde Bakare reflected on the transient nature of life.
“Money, fame, and power are fleeting. What matters is not the applause of men, but the judgment of God,” Bakare said.
He commended Adebanjo for standing firm in the truth, even when unpopular.
As dignitaries gathered to honour the late statesman, the event served not only as a celebration of a life well lived but also a call to pursue purpose, justice, and service above self.
Notable attendees included former Osun State Governor, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola, former Ogun State Governor, Otunba Gbenga Daniel, and retired General Zamani Lekwot, among others.
According to the burial arrangements released by the deceased’s family, Adebanjo will be buried on May 3 in his hometown, Isanya Ogbo, Ijebu Ode, Ogun State.
