Afenifere Leader, Ayo Adebanjo Is Dead

Chief Ayo Adebanjo, a respected nationalist and leader of the Pan-Yoruba socio-cultural group, Afenifere, has died at the age of 96.

The elder statesman died peacefully at his home in Lekki, Lagos, on the morning of Friday, February 14, 2025.

His family confirmed the news in a statement, expressing gratitude for his life of service to God, the nation, and humanity.

The statement reads, “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.”

Chief Ayo Adebanjo is survived by his 94-year-old wife, Chief Christy Ayo-Adebanjo, as well as his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.

The family praised his unwavering commitment to justice, equity, and a better Nigeria, stating that he remained dedicated to his beliefs until his final moments.

“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 statement added.

Born on April 10, 1928, in Isanya Ogbo, near Ijebu Ode in Ogun State, Adebanjo started his career as a journalist before traveling to the United Kingdom to study law. He was called to the English Bar in 1960.

His political journey began in 1943 as a follower of Dr. Nnamdi Azikiwe before he later joined the Action Group in 1951, becoming a close disciple of Chief Obafemi Awolowo.

Until his death, Ayo Adebanjo remained an active political voice, particularly through his leadership in Afenifere, the Pan-Yoruba socio-cultural group.

He and Afenifere publicly supported Peter Obi of the Labour Party in Nigeria’s 2023 presidential election.

KanyiDaily recalls that Chief Ayo Adebanjo said Afenifere decided to back Obi’s presidential bid based on the principle of equity and federal character as enshrined in the constitution.