Elder statesman and prominent leader of the pan-Yoruba socio-cultural organization, Afenifere, Pa Ayodele Adebanjo, has passed away at the age of 96.
Reports indicate that Adebanjo died on Friday morning at his home in Lekki, Lagos State. His family confirmed the news in a statement shared with our correspondent on Friday.
The statement, signed by his children — Mrs. Ayotunde Atteh, Mrs. Adeola Azeez, and Mr. Obafemi Ayo-Adebanjo — read: “He died peacefully this morning, Friday, February 14, 2025, at his Lekki, Lagos, Nigeria home at the age of 96.”
It continued, “We will forever cherish his commitment to fighting for truth, equity, and justice. His belief in and struggle for a truly independent and progressive Nigeria was unwavering, and he fought for this until his last breath.”
The family also noted that they are in discussions with Adebanjo’s friends, associates, and various groups nationwide and internationally to finalize arrangements for his funeral.
The funeral details will be shared in due course, and a condolence register has been opened at his residence in Lagos and his country home in Isanya Ogbo, near Ijebu Ode, Ogun State.
Pa Adebanjo, who previously served as the organizing secretary of the Action Group, is survived by his 94-year-old wife, Chief Christy Ayo-Adebanjo, as well as his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.
