Leader of the Pan-Yoruba socio-political organisation, Afenifere, Pa Ayo Adebanjo has been laid to rest in his native country home, Isanya Ogbo, Ijebu Ode, Odogbolu Local Government Area of Ogun State, Nigeria, on May 3, 2025.
The Ogun State Governor, Dapo Abiodun, at the funeral service held for Adebanjo at St Phillip Anglican Church, Isanya Ogbo, described the late Afenifere leader, as a titan of integrity, justice and a dogged fighter of true federalism who wanted the best for the country.
The governor said: “Chief Adebanjo was a dogged fighter of true federalism. He persistently argued that Nigeria’s over centralised system of government bred economic imbalance and ethnic tension
“Under his leadership, Afenifere, the Pan Yoruba socio-political group was revitalised becoming a potent force with democratic wisdom pushing for regional integration, restructuring and devolution of powers.
“Beyond politics, he was deeply committed to preserving the rich Yoruba culture, he denounced nepotism, corruption and impunity whenever they rear up their ugly heads and becoming a moral compass for all.
“As Nigeria continues its walk towards democratic consolidation, the life of Chief Ayo Adebanjo remains a timeless blueprint for Nigeria, one defined by courage, conviction and unbending integrity.
“His ideals will continue to live on the heart of millions and his contributions shall continue to serve as path to building a just, united and truly federal Nigeria.”
Delivering his sermon at the church service, the Archbishop of Lagos Ecclesiastical Province of Anglican Church and Bishop of Remo Diocese, Bishop Micheal Fape urged the people to live a life of purpose and selflessness just like Adebanjo.
Bishop Fape who spoke on “the purpose of a glorious life” and took his text from John 18 vs 37-38, explained that death is what every mortal would taste at one point or the other.
He said that what would then be of paramount importance is what each individual was able to do with the gift of life before the end would come knocking.
Among the dignitaries at the funeral service included former President Olusegun Obasanjo, immediate past Vice President, Prof Yemi Osibajo, the 2023 presidential candidate of the Labour Party, Peter Obi, Lagos and Oyo State Governors, Babajide Sanwo-Olu and Seyi Makinde.
Others are former governors of the state, Gbenga Daniel and Senator Ibikunle Amosun, the governor of Central Bank of Nigeria, Yemi Cardozo, the former Deputy Governor of Ogun State, Sen Adegbenga Kaka among others
Adebanjo, a lawyer, politician, statesman and one of the last standing associates of the late sage Obafemi Awolowo, died in Lagos on February 14, 2025, at age 96.