The Ondo State chapter of the pan-Yoruba socio political organization, Afenifere has condoled with the organisation’s National Leader, Chief Reuben Fasoranti, on the passage of a notable chieftain of the group, Chief Ayo Adebanjo.
It also commiserated with the departed elder statesman’s family over his passage.
A statement by three of his children including Mrs. Ayotunde Atteh (nee Ayo-Adebanjo), Mrs. Adeola Azeez (nee Ayo-Adebanjo), and Mr. Obafemi Ayo-Adebanjo said that the elder statesman passed away peacefully in his sleep, at his Lekki, Lagos home on Friday morning at 96.
In a statement by its spokesman, Comrade Eric Oluwole, on behalf of its Chairman, Chief Korede Duyile, the Ondo State Chapter of the organisation prayed that Adebanjo be given all the help he needs along his path into the Beyond.
“With hearts full of Gratitude to the Almighty Father for granting a peaceful passage to this illustrious Afenifere chieftain, a courageous fighter, who was deeply committed to the golden principles inherited from the legendary and unforgettable Yoruba Leader and sage, the departed Chief Jeremiah Obafemi Awolowo, who was succeeded by the revered Chief Michel Adekunle Ajasin, who in turn was succeeded by the highly respected Chief Abraham Aderibigbe Adesanya, and who in turn was succeeded by Pa Reuben Famuyide Fasoranti, who is hale and hearty, and on which Afenifere stands.
“We commiserate with his long-term partner of equal worth, his 94-year-old companion and wife, Chief Christy Ayo-Adebanjo, over the passage of her dear husband.
“We note with pride Pa Adebanjo’s deep and unbending commitment to the ideals and principles for which Afenifere exists and stands, most importantly equity, fairness, and Justice for all composite ethnic groups in the governance of our dear Country Nigeria.
“We note the contributions made by Pa Adebanjo to the landmark success recorded by the exemplary administration led by the departed Chief Obafemi Awolowo in the defunct Western Region, which made the Western Region tower above not only the other regions in the country, but above many other countries in Africa.
“Also we recall Pa Adebanjo’s brilliant role and contributions in the famous pro-democracy struggles championed by NADECO which eventually forced the military dictators to withdraw from power, and gave birth to the present democratic dispensation.
“We bid Pa Adebanjo farewell and pray that light will shine on his path, and that he is accompanied by luminous helpers as he is led from the physical world to the Beyond,
“Farewell Papa Ayo Adebanjo.”
Pa Adebanjo, a brilliant lawyer, and former Organising Secretary of the defunct Action Group, is survived by his 94-year-old wife, Chief Christy Ayo-Adebanjo, children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.
The family said in the statement on Friday: “We will forever cherish his commitment to fighting for truth, equity, and justice. His belief and struggle for a truly independent and progressive Nigeria was total, and this he fought for until he breathed his last breath.
Also, it said that consultations are ongoing with Pa Adebanjo’s friends, associates, and various interest groups across Nigeria and beyond to finalise plans for a befitting funeral; and that details of the funeral arrangements will be announced in due course.
Meanwhile, a condolence register has been opened each at his residence at 8, Ayo Adebanjo Close, Lekki Phase 1, Lagos, and his country home in Isanya Ogbo, near Ijebu Ode, Ogun State
