Former President Olusegun Obasanjo and ex-Vice President Yemi Osinbajo joined a host of dignitaries on Saturday to pay their last respects to Pa Ayo Adebanjo, the late Afenifere leader and respected Yoruba elder statesman. The burial, held in Isanya-Ogbo, Ijebu, Ogun State, drew prominent Nigerians from across the political landscape, underscoring the influence and legacy of the departed icon.
Among those present were Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, his Oyo State counterpart, Governor Seyi Makinde, and the host, Governor Dapo Abiodun. Also in attendance were Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate Peter Obi, NADECO General Secretary Chief Ayo Opadokun, and former Lagos State Deputy Governor, Senator Kofoworola Bucknor-Akerele.
Laid to rest at his private residence shortly before 2 p.m., Pa Adebanjo was remembered not only as a political stalwart but as a man who spent his life defending the values of justice, equity, and true federalism.
Governor Abiodun, speaking at the funeral service held at St. Philip’s Anglican Church, described the late statesman as a fearless advocate for democracy and one of the most vocal critics of military rule. He noted that Pa Adebanjo remained a resolute force even during Nigeria’s darkest political moments, standing firmly with pro-democracy movements and lending his voice to calls for civilian governance.
“He was a dogged crusader for true federalism, a relentless voice against injustice, and a symbol of resistance to cultural and political marginalisation,” Abiodun said. “Chief Adebanjo denounced corruption, nepotism, and impunity wherever they reared their head. He served as a moral compass in Nigeria’s political space.”
The governor likened Pa Adebanjo’s convictions to those of Martin Luther King Jr., citing his belief that injustice anywhere was a threat to justice everywhere. He praised the late Afenifere leader for transcending ethnic lines in pursuit of a better Nigeria, calling him a beacon of integrity and courage.
Delivering the sermon, Archbishop Olusina Fape of the Lagos Ecclesiastical Province described Pa Adebanjo as a principled politician who led a life anchored in purpose, truth, and national interest. Fape, who also serves as Bishop of the Diocese of Remo, lamented the dwindling presence of ideology-driven politicians in Nigeria, contrasting Adebanjo’s legacy with the trend of party-switching among modern political actors.
Reflecting on the life of the late icon, the cleric said Adebanjo stood unwavering in his beliefs and championed Nigeria’s unity through his unflinching commitment to a federal structure grounded in fairness and justice.
Former military Head of State, General Abdulsalami Abubakar (retd.), in a tribute read at the service, described Adebanjo as a true federalist and consistent voice for democracy. He noted that the late statesman’s loyalty, devotion, and principled stance would continue to inspire future generations. Abubakar also acknowledged the deep void Pa Adebanjo’s passing leaves in Nigeria’s political and moral landscape.
As mourners bid their final goodbyes, it was clear that Pa Ayo Adebanjo’s legacy—built on truth, unwavering principle, and service to the nation—will echo far beyond his lifetime.
