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OHANAEZE NDIGBO WORLDWIDE MOURNS THE PASSING OF CHIEF AYO ADEBANJO

The Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide has expressed deep sadness over the passing of Chief Ayo Adebanjo, a renowned elder statesman and nationalist. In a condolence letter to Chief Christy Ayo Adebanjo, the President General, Senator John Azuta-Mbata, described Chief Adebanjo as a “prototype of the detribalized Nigerian” and an “outstanding elder statesman, distinguished patriot, nationalist, bridge builder.” Senator Azuta-Mbata stated that Chief Adebanjo shared several common values with the Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide, including his commitment to justice, fairness, and equity. “We considered him a caring bosom friend, beloved brother, a father, and a staunch ally for the unity and oneness of Nigeria,” Azuta-Mbata said. The President General noted that Chief Adebanjo’s enduring legacies and commitment to fairness and good governance would remain evergreen in their memories. Azuta-Mbata also highlighted Chief Adebanjo’s role as a founding member of the Middle Belt Leaders’ Forum (SMBLF) and his advocacy for fairness and good governance. The President General concluded by urging Chief Adebanjo’s family to bear the irreversible departure with courage and prayed for his soul to rest in perfect peace. “May his gentle soul rest in perfect peace! Adieu Pa Ayo!” Azuta-Mbata said.

AFENIFERE LEADER, CHIEF AYO ADEBANJO PASSES ON AT 96

Chief Samuel Ayodele Adebanjo, a renowned nationalist, elder statesman, distinguished lawyer, and national leader of Afenifere, has passed away at the age of 96. According to a statement by his family, Chief Adebanjo died peacefully on Friday, February 14, 2025, at his Lekki, Lagos residence. The family described Chief Adebanjo as a “foremost nationalist, elder statesman, distinguished lawyer, very distinct politician, apostle of true federalism, former organising secretary of Action Group and the national leader of Afenifere.” He is survived by his 94-year-old wife, Chief Christy Ayo-Adebanjo, children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. “We will forever cherish his commitment to fighting for truth, equity, and justice,” the family stated. “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 family is currently consulting with Chief Adebanjo’s friends, associates, and various interest groups to plan a befitting funeral, details of which will be announced later. Condolence registers have been opened at his Lagos residence and country home in Isanya Ogbo, near Ijebu Ode, Ogun State.