Pa Ayo Adebanjo, a revered Afenifere chieftain, lawyer, politician, and activist, passed away at 96.
He died on Friday morning at his residence in Lekki, Lagos.
As a prominent nationalist and leader of the Pan-Yoruba socio-cultural group Afenifere, his legacy spans decades of advocacy for democracy, justice, and true federalism in Nigeria.
Here are seven key things to know about the late elder statesman;
1. A dedicated nationalist
Pa Ayo Adebanjo, born on April 10, 1928, in Ogun State. He began his educational journey at Saint Saviour’s Primary School, Lagos. He later attended Holy Trinity School, Ebute Ero, and the Cathedral School, Lagos. Adebanjo pursued his legal studies in the United Kingdom and was called to the bar at Lincoln’s Inn in 1961.
He was a staunch disciple of Chief Obafemi Awolowo and remained committed to the principles of Awoism, which emphasized free education, healthcare, rural development, and federalism.
2. Legal and Political Luminary
Called to the bar in the UK in 1961, Adebanjo worked in government and journalism before becoming Action Group’s first organizing secretary, laying the groundwork for his impactful political career.
3. Exile and Persecution
Fleeing to Ghana in 1962 due to political persecution during the Awolowo treason trials, his father was arrested as retaliation, but Adebanjo’s political resolve never wavered.
4. Founding Member of NADECO
Adebanjo helped establish the National Democratic Coalition, championing democracy and opposing military rule, particularly after the annulment of MKO Abiola’s 1993 presidential election win.
5. Lifelong Commitment to Justice and Equity
As Afenifere’s leader, Adebanjo supported Peter Obi’s 2023 presidential bid, advocating for fairness, especially for the marginalized Southeast region.
6. Family
Pa Ayo Adebanjo Married to Chief Mrs. Christianah Adebanjo for over 60 years, he upheld strong family values and maintained a rigorous fitness routine even in his later years.
7. Activism
Adebanjo, a former journalist, was known for his fearless commentary on national issues, consistently calling for Nigeria’s restructuring to achieve true federalism.
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