Afenifere Leader Ayo Adebanjo Dies At 96
Chief Ayo Adebanjo, a prominent patriot, elder statesman, and leader of the Pan-Yoruba socio-cultural group, died at the age of 96. On Friday morning, February 14, 2025, he died quietly at his home in Lekki, Lagos State. The family acknowledged his death in a statement released to Channels Television on Friday.
“With a heart full of appreciation for a selfless life spent serving God, the nation, and humanity, we announce the demise 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,” a statement from his family said.
Adebanjo is survived by his wife, Chief Christy Ayo-Adebanjo, aged 94, as well as his children, grandkids, and great-grandchildren.
“We shall always value his dedication to battling for truth, equity, and justice. His belief and battle for a truly independent and progressive Nigeria were unwavering, and he fought for it until his death, according to the statement.
The family stated that they are talking with Adebanjo’s friends, acquaintances, and several interest groups throughout Nigeria and beyond to finalize plans for an appropriate funeral, which would be communicated in due time.
A condolence register has been set up at his Lagos apartment (8, Ayo Adebanjo Close, Lekki Phase 1, Lagos) and his country property at Isanya Ogbo, near Ijebu Ode, Ogun State. On April 10, 1928, Adebanjo was born in Isanya Ogbo, a hamlet near Ijebu Ode in Ogun State, South-West Nigeria. He is a lawyer, radical politician, and Yoruba nationalist.
Before studying law in the United Kingdom, he worked as a journalist. After finishing his education, he was admitted to the English Bar in 196. Chief Adebanjo began his political career at a young age, joining the struggle in 1943 as a Zikist and a supporter of Dr. Nnamdi Azikiwe. However, in 1951, he joined the Action Group’s youth wing and became a mentor and political student of the late Chief Obafemi Awolowo.
He remained active and loud in Nigerian politics until his death, supporting Peter Obi’s Labour Party candidate in the 2023 presidential election with his Afenifere group.
