Pa Adebanjo may be buried May – Daughter

As condolences continue to flow for the late Afenifere leader, Pa Ayo Adebanjo, one of his daughters, Mrs. Adeola Azeez, has revealed that the family is considering a May burial, though no final decision has been made.

Pa Adebanjo, who passed away on Friday, February 14, 2025, at the age of 96, was a respected elder statesman and a champion of democracy in Nigeria. Addressing journalists at the family’s Lekki residence, Mrs. Azeez dismissed earlier reports that the family had settled on an April burial date, stating, “We are considering May, but the family will meet and decide on a date.”

Political and Religious Leaders Pay Tribute

Several dignitaries have visited the Adebanjo family to pay their respects. Among them were former Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, Labour Party’s 2023 Presidential candidate Peter Obi, former Cross River State Governor Donald Duke, RCCG General Overseer Pastor Enoch Adeboye, and former Ogun State Governor Senator Gbenga Daniel.

Other notable visitors included former Ogun State Governor Aremo Olusegun Osoba, former Lagos Deputy Governor Senator Kofoworola Bucknor-Akerele, Chief Supo Shonibare, Senator Femi Okurounmu, Mr. Akin Oshuntokun, and Oba Oladipo Olaitan.

The tributes highlighted Adebanjo’s fearless commitment to democracy, justice, and fairness.

Osinbajo: Adebanjo Was a Fearless Advocate for Progress

Speaking during his visit, former Vice President Osinbajo lauded Adebanjo’s unwavering dedication to national progress.

“There is practically no social or political cause he did not champion,” Osinbajo remarked. “He spoke boldly, clearly, and without fear. Many times, he was willing to put his life and everything he owned on the line.”

He recalled Adebanjo’s relentless push for democracy during Nigeria’s military rule, describing him as a pillar of the nation’s political evolution.

Peter Obi: A Fighter for Justice and Fairness

Labour Party’s Peter Obi emphasized Adebanjo’s consistency in advocating for justice.

“He was fearless and courageous in his pursuit of fairness. Many start such fights but compromise along the way. Not him. He deprived himself of material gains and stayed true to his convictions,” Obi said.

Gbenga Daniel: Adebanjo Was a Man of Principle

Former Ogun State Governor Senator Gbenga Daniel echoed similar sentiments, describing Adebanjo as a man of unwavering principles.

“He stood by what he believed, even when it wasn’t politically convenient. As leader of Afenifere, he built bridges beyond tribal lines and remained steadfast in his values,” Daniel noted.

Alaafin-Elect: More Than an Ethnic Figure

The Alaafin-elect, Oba Akeem Owoade, celebrated Adebanjo’s impact beyond Yoruba politics.

“Pa Adebanjo was not just an ethnic figure; he was a force of change who inspired others to live with purpose and authenticity,” Owoade’s media aide, Bode Durojaiye, said in a statement.

Ngige: Adebanjo Lived and Died an Awoist

Former Labour Minister Senator Chris Ngige described Adebanjo’s passing as a great loss.

“He lived an honourable and incorruptible life, like the politicians of his generation. Unlike today’s leaders, he was not driven by material acquisitions but by his convictions,” Ngige said.