President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has described the passing of elder statesman and Afenifere leader, Pa Ayo Adebanjo, as an immense loss to Nigeria, highlighting his decade-long struggle for justice, democracy, and national unity.

In a statement he personally issued on Friday, Tinubu paid tribute to Adebanjo’s lifelong dedication to progressive ideals, acknowledging his pivotal role in shaping Nigeria’s political landscape.

“Nigeria has lost a political leader whose decades of unwavering struggle for justice, democracy, and national unity have left an indelible mark on our nation’s history,” Tinubu said.

Adebanjo, a prominent advocate for good governance and civil rights, passed away peacefully on Friday, February 14, 2025, at his home in Lekki, Lagos, according to his family.

Tinubu recalled Adebanjo’s critical role in Nigeria’s democratic struggles, particularly during periods of political turbulence.

“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,” the President noted.

Adebanjo’s activism was instrumental in galvanizing the movement that ultimately restored civilian rule in Nigeria. His influence extended across generations, shaping political discourse and inspiring democratic engagement.

Adebanjo, a staunch disciple of the late Chief Obafemi Awolowo, was deeply involved in Nigeria’s political evolution, serving as the Organising Secretary of the Action Group in the First Republic and later playing a key role in the Unity Party of Nigeria during the Second Republic.

“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,” Tinubu said.

His support for Tinubu’s political journey was also highlighted in the President’s tribute.

“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,” Tinubu recalled.

Though their political paths diverged in later years, Tinubu affirmed that his respect and admiration for Adebanjo never wavered, saying “until his death, I shared a deep personal bond with Baba Adebanjo; he was like a father figure”.

As Nigeria mourns Adebanjo’s passing, Tinubu extended condolences to his family, the Afenifere group, Southwest governors, and all Nigerians who shared his vision.

“Let us take solace in the enduring legacy of a man who dedicated his life to the service of others—a legacy that will continue to inspire generations to come,” he said.

“Pa Ayo Adebanjo, aged 96, leaves behind a legacy of principled leadership and an unrelenting commitment to justice.”

You’re Father Figure To Me— President Tinubu Mourns Pa Ayo Adebanjo

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