Pa Ayo Adebanjo, the leader of the pan-Yoruba socio-cultural group Afenifere, has died at the age of 96. His family confirmed his passing in a statement, revealing that he died peacefully at his residence in Lekki, Lagos State, on Friday, February 14, 2025.
“He died peacefully this morning, Friday, February 14, 2025, at his Lekki, Lagos, Nigeria home at the age of 96,” the statement read.
Adebanjo was a respected lawyer and a strong advocate for democracy and justice in Nigeria. He was a former organizing secretary of the Action Group, a major political party in the First Republic, and later became the national leader of Afenifere.
Throughout his life, he was deeply involved in the struggle for a fair and just society, particularly championing the rights of the Yoruba people and advocating for good governance in Nigeria.
The late Afenifere leader is survived by his wife, Chief Christy Ayo-Adebanjo, who is 94 years old, along with his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.
His family, in their statement, noted his unwavering dedication to truth, equity, and justice, saying, “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.”
The statement also mentioned that consultations are ongoing with his close associates and various groups across Nigeria and beyond to organize a fitting funeral in his honor. The details of the funeral arrangements will be made public soon.
To honor his memory, a condolence register has been opened at his Lekki residence at 8, Ayo Adebanjo Close, Lekki Phase 1, Lagos, as well as at his country home in Isanya Ogbo, near Ijebu Ode, Ogun State.
The statement announcing his passing was signed by his children: Mrs. Ayotunde Atteh (née Ayo-Adebanjo), Mrs. Adeola Azeez (née Ayo-Adebanjo), and Mr. Obafemi Ayo-Adebanjo.
