Gladness Gideon, Ebere Ndukwu
It was a moving celebration of life and legacy on Wednesday, April 30, as Nigeria gathered to honour the late Chief Ayo Adebanjo—patriarch, statesman, and principled voice of conscience—at a night of tribute and service of songs titled “The Last of the Titans.”
Held at Eko Hotel, Lagos, the evening drew a wide array of dignitaries, political leaders, clergy, and loved ones, all united in remembering a man whose life was defined by uncommon integrity, fierce patriotism, and humility that left generations in awe.
“If You Took His Word to the Bank…”
Renowned scholar, Professor Anya O. Anya, described Chief Adebanjo’s humility as “a model worthy of academic study,” remarking that despite a significant age gap between them, the elder statesman never wavered in loyalty or grace. “He had my back,” the professor said. “If you took Pa Ayo’s words to the bank, they would be honoured.”
“My Only Regret Is Meeting Him Late” – Victor Attah
Former Governor of Akwa Ibom, Hon. Victor Attah, now 86, admitted that his deepest regret was not meeting Adebanjo earlier in life. In a heartfelt tribute, he called him a pathfinder, a man bold in chaos and unwavering in his pursuit of a restructured Nigeria.
Attah fondly recalled inviting Chief Adebanjo to lunch at his home. “I made fisherman’s soup,” he laughed, “but Papa said he didn’t eat okra. Yet he sat, picked out the okra, and ate the soup anyway. He said, ‘I promised to eat with you, and I’ll honour that.’”
Obasanjo’s Message: “A Titan Has Fallen”
Representing former President Olusegun Obasanjo, ex-Ogun State Governor Gbenga Daniel described Adebanjo’s passing as a “deep loss not only to Ogun but to the entire nation.” He praised the late leader for his unwavering courage, purposeful leadership, and lifelong fight for a better Nigeria. “His integrity and tenacity will be missed,” Obasanjo said, “as will the fond memories we shared.”
READ ALSO: Family Announces Funeral Plans for Ayo Adebanjo
Tunde Bakare’s Soul-Stirring Sermon
Delivering the exhortation titled “Lord, Make Me to Know My End” from Psalm 39:4, Pastor Tunde Bakare reminded attendees of life’s fragility. “Man is like a vapor,” he preached. He praised Pa Adebanjo’s generosity and labour for the nation, describing him as a man filled with kindness and courage.
Bakare recounted visiting Pa Ayo on February 11. “His voice was still like thunder,” he recalled, “and I knew his days were near.” He closed by calling on all present to live righteous lives. “It’s not money, fame, or influence that matters,” he said. “What counts is how you meet your Maker.”
Peter Obi: “He Stood for the Poor”
Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, Peter Obi, paid a glowing tribute to Adebanjo, who supported his campaign. “Pa Ayo cared deeply about the people,” Obi said. “He was a man of integrity, a champion of fairness, and a defender of the poor. Nigeria has lost a rare gem.”
A Farewell Fit for a Giant
From heartfelt speeches to emotional prayers, the night was a testament to the towering impact of Chief Ayo Adebanjo—a leader whose voice echoed truth, whose life inspired action, and whose legacy will continue to shape Nigeria’s future.
As the service closed, Pastor Bakare offered final prayers for the widow, children, and grandchildren, bidding Chief Adebanjo a poignant farewell: “Good night, Papa… until we meet again.”
