Nigeria has lost one of its foremost nationalists and elder statesmen, Chief Ayo Adebanjo, who passed away peacefully at the age of 96.
The leader of the Pan-Yoruba socio-cultural group, Afenifere, breathed his last on the morning of Friday, February 14, 2025, at his residence in Lekki, Lagos State.
His family confirmed the news in a statement, expressing gratitude for his long life dedicated to the service of God, the nation, and humanity.
“With a heart full of gratitude for a selfless life spent in the service of God, the nation, and humanity, we announce the passing on of our beloved patriarch, Chief Samuel Ayodele Adebanjo. He died peacefully this morning at his Lekki, Lagos home at the age of 96,” the statement read.
The revered elder statesman is survived by his 94-year-old wife, Chief Christy Ayo-Adebanjo, as well as children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.
His family described him as a tireless advocate for truth, equity, and justice, noting that he remained committed to the struggle for a truly independent and progressive Nigeria until his final moments.
Plans for his funeral are currently being discussed with friends, associates, and various interest groups across Nigeria and beyond.
The family assured that details of a befitting burial would be announced in due course.
A condolence register has been opened at his residence in Lekki and his country home in Isanya Ogbo, near Ijebu-Ode, Ogun State.
Born on April 10, 1928, in Isanya Ogbo, Ogun State, Adebanjo was a lawyer, journalist, and nationalist who played a significant role in Nigeria’s political evolution.
He initially pursued journalism before traveling to the United Kingdom to study law. He was called to the English Bar in 1961.
His political journey began in 1943 when he joined the nationalist movement as a Zikist, following the ideology of Dr. Nnamdi Azikiwe.
However, by 1951, he had aligned himself with the Action Group’s youth wing and became a close disciple of Chief Obafemi Awolowo.
Throughout his life, Adebanjo remained a vocal advocate for good governance and democracy.
In the 2023 presidential election, he and Afenifere openly supported Peter Obi of the Labour Party, reinforcing his lifelong commitment to justice and fairness in Nigerian politics.
Chief Ayo Adebanjo’s passing marks the end of an era, leaving behind a legacy of courage, activism, and unwavering dedication to the Nigerian cause.
