Elder statesman, nationalist, and leader of the Pan-Yoruba socio-cultural group Afenifere, Chief Ayo Adebanjo, has passed away at the age of 96.
He died peacefully at his residence in Lekki, Lagos State, on the morning of Friday, February 14, 2025.
His family confirmed his passing in a statement made available to Channels Television, expressing gratitude for his life of service to God, the nation, and humanity.
“With a heart full of gratitude for a selfless life spent in the service of God, the nation, and humanity, we announce the passing of our beloved patriarch, Chief Samuel Ayodele Adebanjo. He died peacefully this morning, Friday, February 14, 2025, at his Lekki, Lagos home at the age of 96,” the statement read.
Adebanjo is survived by his 94-year-old wife, Chief Christy Ayo-Adebanjo, as well as children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.
“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,” the family added.
Plans for a befitting funeral are being discussed with his associates, interest groups, and well-wishers, with details to be announced in due course. Condolence registers have been opened at his Lagos residence (8, Ayo Adebanjo Close, Lekki Phase 1) and his country home in Isanya Ogbo, near Ijebu Ode, Ogun State.
Born on April 10, 1928, in Isanya Ogbo, Ogun State, Adebanjo was a lawyer, radical politician, and Yoruba nationalist. He initially trained as a journalist before traveling to the United Kingdom to study law, eventually being called to the English Bar in 1961.
His political journey began in 1943 as a Zikist, a follower of Dr. Nnamdi Azikiwe. By 1951, he had joined the youth wing of the Action Group and became a devoted disciple of Chief Obafemi Awolowo.
Adebanjo remained a vocal figure in Nigerian politics until his death, with his Afenifere group endorsing Peter Obi of the Labour Party in the 2023 presidential election.
