By Gideon Maxwell
May 3, 2025
The late Chief Ayo Adebanjo, a towering figure in Nigerian politics and a revered leader of the Afenifere socio-political group, was laid to rest amid an outpouring of tributes from prominent leaders across the nation.
Former President Olusegun Obasanjo, Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, several state governors, and other notable public figures gathered to pay their final respects to the late elder statesman, whose influence spanned decades.
The funeral service, held at the Cathedral Church of Christ, Marina, Lagos, on Saturday, May 3, 2025, was attended by thousands, including traditional rulers, political leaders, and members of civil society.
The ceremony reflected the deep respect and admiration Chief Adebanjo commanded as a relentless advocate for Yoruba unity, democracy, and good governance in Nigeria.
Former President Olusegun Obasanjo described Chief Adebanjo as a “patriot who dedicated his life to the advancement of Nigeria and the Yoruba people.”
Obasanjo recalled Adebanjo’s unwavering commitment to democratic principles and his courage in standing up against authoritarianism.
“He was a voice of reason and a guardian of our collective conscience,” Obasanjo said.
Former Vice President, Professor Yemi Osinbajo, who has often acknowledged the critical role of the Afenifere leadership in Nigeria’s democratic evolution, expressed his deep sorrow at the passing of one of the nation’s most principled leaders.
“Chief Adebanjo’s legacy is not only in Yoruba land but across Nigeria, as he tirelessly worked towards unity and progress for all Nigerians,” Osinbajo noted.
Governors from the Southwest and other regions joined the funeral procession, highlighting Chief Adebanjo’s impact on regional politics.
Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State praised Adebanjo as a “visionary leader whose counsel helped shape the modern political landscape of the Southwest.”
Similarly, Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State described the late leader as “a repository of wisdom and a beacon of hope for the Yoruba nation.”
Other dignitaries, including former governors, legislators, and party leaders, attended the ceremony, affirming Chief Adebanjo’s role in promoting peaceful coexistence and political stability.
Chief Ayo Adebanjo’s political career spanned over six decades, during which he was a vocal proponent of federalism and a critic of military rule.
As one of the founding fathers of Afenifere, he championed the cause of Yoruba socio-political interests and worked to ensure that the group remained a formidable voice in Nigeria’s national discourse.
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His death marks the end of an era, but his contributions continue to inspire a new generation of leaders.
Scholars and commentators noted that Adebanjo’s commitment to dialogue and democratic governance provided a template for political engagement in a complex multi-ethnic nation.
The burial ceremony was conducted with traditional rites befitting a Yoruba elder of his stature. His family received condolences from across Nigeria and the diaspora.
The event closed with prayers for peace and unity in the region and the nation at large.
In the wake of his passing, many have called for the continuation of Chief Adebanjo’s ideals of honesty, integrity, and dedication to public service as a means to foster national unity.
