10 things to know about Late Afenifere Chieftain, Pa Ayo Adebanjo

Pa Ayo Adebanjo, a prominent nationalist, lawyer, and politician has passed away at the age 96.

Adebanjo who was an unwavering voice for democracy, justice, and true federalism in Nigeria passed away at his residence in Lekki, Lagos.

As the leader of the Pan-Yoruba socio-cultural group, Afenifere, his influence spanned decades of political activism and advocacy for the rights of marginalized groups.

Here are 10 key things to know about the life and legacy of the late Pa Ayo Adebanjo.

1. Birth and Early Life

Pa Ayo Adebanjo was born on April 10, 1928, in Ijebu Ogbu Oke, Odogbolu Local Government Area of Ogun State to Salawatu Anomo Adebanjo and Chief Joel Adedairo Adebanjo.

2. Education journey

He began his education at Saint Saviour’s Primary School, Lagos, and later attended Holy Trinity School, Ebute Ero, and the Cathedral School, Lagos.

He studied law in the United Kingdom and was called to the bar at Lincoln’s Inn in 1961.

3. Legal and Political Career

After returning to Nigeria, Adebanjo briefly worked in the Ministry of Health before being dismissed due to his activism.

He later worked at the Nigerian Tribune under Olabisi Onabanjo and became the first organizing secretary of the Action Group from 1947 to 1953.

4. Ally of Chief Obafemi Awolowo

Adebanjo was a staunch follower of Chief Obafemi Awolowo and a strong advocate of Awoism, promoting democratic governance and social welfare for Nigerians.

5. Role in NADECO

He was one of the leaders of the National Democratic Coalition (NADECO), a group that fought for the revalidation of the June 12, 1993, presidential election won by Chief M.K.O. Abiola.

6. Leadership of Afenifere

In 2021, Adebanjo was appointed the leader of Afenifere, a prominent Pan-Yoruba socio-cultural group, succeeding Chief Reuben Fasoranti.

7. Support for Peter Obi in 2023 Elections

Pa Adebanjo endorsed Labour Party’s Peter Obi for the 2023 presidential election, citing the need for fairness and equity by giving the Southeast a chance to lead Nigeria.

8. Advocacy

He was a vocal proponent of restructuring Nigeria, criticizing the Buhari administration for ignoring calls to restructure and ensure true federalism.

9. Family Life

Pa Ayo Adebanjo was to Chief Mrs. Christianah Adebanjo in 1960, he was a father and grandfather. Two of his children studied law but chose not to practice.

10. Death

Pa Ayo Adebanjo died at 96 on Friday morning at his Lekki residence in Lagos. His legacy as a nationalist, activist, and advocate for democracy remains indelible in Nigeria’s political history.