President Bola Tinubu has extended his condolences to the family of Ayo Adebanjo, the factional leader of Afenifere, who passed away on Friday at the age of 96.
Adebanjo died at his residence in Lekki, Lagos, leaving behind his 94-year-old wife, Christy Ayo-Adebanjo, children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.
In a statement, President Tinubu described the late elder statesman as a pillar of political activism and a strong voice in national affairs, adding that he would be deeply missed.
“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.
He highlighted Adebanjo’s contributions to Nigerian politics, recalling his role as Organising Secretary of the Action Group in the First Republic and his leadership in the Unity Party of Nigeria (UPN) during the Second Republic.
“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.”
Tinubu also acknowledged Adebanjo’s bravery during critical moments in Nigeria’s history, particularly his opposition to military dictatorship.
“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.”
The president further recalled Adebanjo’s role in his 1999 governorship victory in Lagos State, noting that his steadfast support was instrumental in securing the election under the Alliance for Democracy (AD) platform.
“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.”
Despite political differences in recent years, Tinubu maintained that his respect and admiration for Adebanjo remained unshaken.
“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.”
