Afenifere, the pan-Yoruba socio-cultural organisation, is mourning the loss of one of its most prominent leaders, Pa Ayo Adebanjo, who passed away on the morning of Friday, February 14, 2025, at the age of 96.
His family confirmed the news in a statement, revealing that he died peacefully at his home in Lekki, Lagos State.
The late Pa Adebanjo was a distinguished lawyer, a former organising secretary of the Action Group, and the national leader of Afenifere. He is survived by his 94-year-old wife, Chief Christy Ayo-Adebanjo, alongside his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.
The family, in their statement, reflected on Pa Adebanjo’s lifelong 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 his last breath,” the statement read.
Plans for a befitting funeral are currently underway, with consultations ongoing among Pa Adebanjo’s friends, associates, and various groups across Nigeria and beyond. The family assured that funeral details will be announced in due course.
A condolence register has been opened at his residence at 8, Ayo Adebanjo Close, Lekki Phase 1, Lagos, and his country home in Isanya Ogbo, near Ijebu Ode, Ogun State.
The statement was signed on behalf of the family by Mrs. Ayotunde Atteh (nee Ayo-Adebanjo), Mrs. Adeola Azeez (nee Ayo-Adebanjo), and Mr. Obafemi Ayo-Adebanjo.
