Elder statesman and chieftain of the pan-Yoruba socio-cultural organisation, Afenifere, Pa Ayodele Adebanjo, has died at the age of 96.
Adebanjo was said to have died on Friday morning at his residence in Lekki, Lagos State while the family also confirmed his death in a statement made available to journalists on Friday.
The statement was jointly signed by his children, namely, Mrs. Ayotunde Atteh (nee Ayo-Adebanjo), Mrs. Adeola Azeez (nee Ayo-Adebanjo), and Mr. Obafemi Ayo-Adebanjo.
The statement reads in part, “With a heart full of gratitude for a selfless life spent in the service of God, the nation and humanity, we announce the passing on of our beloved patriarch, Chief Samuel Ayodele Adebanjo.
“He died peacefully this morning, Friday, February 14, 2025, at his Lekki, Lagos, Nigeria home at the age of 96,” the statement reads.
The statement further said, “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 breath.”
The family also disclosed that consultations are ongoing with Adebanjo’s friends, associates, and various interest groups across the country and beyond to finalise plans for a befitting funeral.
According to the statement, details of the funeral arrangements will be announced in due course, saying that a condolence register has been opened at his residence in Lagos and his country home in Isanya Ogbo, near Ijebu Ode, Ogun State.
The late Adebanjo, who was a former organising secretary of the defunct Action Group (AG), is survived by his 94-year-old wife, Chief Christy Ayo-Adebanjo, along with children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.
