…says he was a committed nationalist with an unpretentious personality
Segun Ayinde, Abeokuta
Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has paid tribute to the late Afenifere leader, Pa Ayo Adebanjo, describing him as a committed nationalist and an unwavering advocate for democracy.
In a statement issued by his media aide, Kehinde Akinyemi, Obasanjo expressed shock over Adebanjo’s passing while attending the 38th Ordinary Session of the African Union Assembly in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. He described the loss as a significant blow to Ogun State and the entire nation.
“The unfortunate news came to me as a shock because when I last visited him on February 3, 2025, at his Lekki residence, though he was in a fragile state, I had no inkling he would leave us so soon. His transition is, no doubt, a huge loss not only to me and Ogun State but also to the country as a whole. He was a great man, a committed nationalist, and an effective representative of his people,” Obasanjo stated.
He praised Adebanjo’s lifelong dedication to democracy and national unity, recalling their political engagements and occasional disagreements while working toward Nigeria’s progress.
“As a foundation member of the Action Group (AG), he was a foremost nationalist and patriot who dedicated his life to public service. His commitment to democracy, even in the face of mortal risks, marks him as a courageous leader and true patriot,” Obasanjo said.
Reflecting on their time together, Obasanjo added:
“As a democratically elected president of Nigeria from 1999 to 2007, we sometimes disagreed to agree in our shared commitment to regenerating and repositioning our country. His thoughts, utterances, and actions were devoid of political partisanship; he was a true statesman.”
Obasanjo lamented that Adebanjo did not live to see the restructuring of Nigeria, a cause he tirelessly championed.
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“Until his death, he fought with courage and tenacity for a restructured Nigeria—one founded on justice, equity, political stability, and national unity. It is unfortunate that his dream was not realized in his lifetime,” he said.
He extended his condolences to Adebanjo’s family, friends, and admirers, praying for strength in this difficult time.
“My family and I commiserate with his loved ones and pray that God grants them the fortitude to bear this irreparable loss. May his soul rest in perfect peace. I will undoubtedly miss my dear Egbon Ayo, cherishing the remarkable memories we shared until we meet again,” Obasanjo concluded.