Former President Muhammadu Buhari has expressed sorrow over the passing of elder statesman and Afenifere chieftain, Pa Ayo Adebanjo, describing his death as a significant loss to Nigeria.
In a statement released by his spokesperson, Garba Shehu, on Friday, Buhari paid tribute to Adebanjo’s legacy, highlighting his contributions to law, politics, and socio-cultural activism.
“The late Chief Adebanjo was one of those rare politicians who straddled the worlds of the legal profession, politics, and socio-cultural activism,” Buhari said, adding that his impact on Nigeria’s political landscape would not be forgotten.
He also extended his condolences to the bereaved family, admirers, and the people and government of Ogun State, praying for strength in their time of grief.
Pa Adebanjo, a prominent figure in Yoruba socio-political affairs, passed away at the age of 94 in his Lekki, Lagos residence.
His family confirmed his death in a statement on Friday, signed by his children, Mrs. Ayotunde Atteh (née Ayo-Adebanjo), Mrs. Adeola Azeez (née Ayo-Adebanjo), and Mr. Obafemi Ayo-Adebanjo.
The family noted that consultations were ongoing with his associates and various interest groups to finalize arrangements for his funeral.
“Details of the funeral arrangements will be announced in due course,” the statement read. They also revealed that condolence registers had been opened at his Lagos residence and country home in Isanya Ogbo, near Ijebu Ode, Ogun State.
A former Organising Secretary of the Action Group, Adebanjo is survived by his 94-year-old wife, Chief Christy Ayo-Adebanjo, as well as children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.
