Dr. Fayemi mourns the passing of Chief Ayo Adebanjo, Foremost Nationalist and Renowned Afenifere Leader.

Dr. Fayemi mourns the passing of Chief Ayo Adebanjo, Foremost Nationalist and Renowned Afenifere Leader.

Former Governor of Ekiti State, Dr. Kayode Fayemi, has expressed deep sorrow over the passing of elder statesman and Afenifere leader, Chief Samuel Ayodele Adebanjo.

Adebanjo, a renowned nationalist and advocate for democracy, died on Friday, February 14, 2025, at his Lagos residence at the age of 96.

In a personally signed statement, Fayemi described the late Afenifere chieftain as a man who dedicated his life to fairness and democratic ideals despite facing adversity.

“I am deeply saddened by the passing of Chief Ayo Adebanjo, foremost nationalist and leader of Afenifere. This is a great loss not only for the Yoruba nation but Nigeria as a whole. Pa Adebanjo was a true icon of Nigeria’s democratic struggle, an unwavering advocate of justice, and a pillar of progressive politics in Nigeria,” Fayemi said.

He noted that Adebanjo was more than a political leader, describing him as a moral compass who never wavered in his convictions.

“As a committed nationalist and a leading voice in Afenifere, he stood for fairness, justice, and the restructuring of Nigeria to ensure a more equitable society. His principled courage, wisdom, and steadfastness in speaking truth to power made him an enduring figure in our national political landscape,” he added.

The former governor stated that while Adebanjo’s death is a great loss, his life and contributions to nation-building should be celebrated.

“While we grieve his loss, we also celebrate a life well-lived, dedicated to the pursuit of a better Nigeria. His legacy will remain an inspiration for those of us who believe in the principles he championed,” Fayemi said.

He extended his condolences to Adebanjo’s family, the Yoruba nation, Afenifere leadership, and all Nigerians who benefited from his leadership.

“On behalf of my wife, whom he specially adored, and the rest of our family, I extend my deepest condolences to his family, the Yoruba nation, the Afenifere leadership, and all Nigerians who are beneficiaries of his leadership and goodwill.

“May his soul rest in peace, and may God grant his family and loved ones the fortitude to bear this irreparable loss,” Fayemi concluded.