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CHIEF AYO ADEBANJO’S FUNERAL ARRANGEMENTS ANNOUNCED

The family of the late Chief Samuel Ayodele Adebanjo has announced the funeral arrangements for the elder statesman and nationalist. According to the family, the funeral activities will commence with a Day of Tributes/Service of Songs on Wednesday, April 30, 2025, at Harbour Point, Victoria Island, Lagos, from 1:00 pm to 6:00 pm. This will be followed by a wake on Friday, May 2, 2025, at Pa Ayo Adebanjo’s Country Home, Isanya Ogbo, Ijebu Ode, Ogun State, from 4:00 pm to 6:00 pm. The Church Service/Final Burial will take place on Saturday, May 3, 2025, at St Phillips Anglican Church, Isanya Ogbo, Ijebu Ode, Ogun State, from 10:00 am to 1:00 pm. A Thanksgiving service will be held on Sunday, May 4, 2025, at St Phillips Anglican Church, Isanya Ogbo, Ijebu Ode, Ogun State, from 10:00 am to 12:30 pm. The family has requested prayers and professional support as they prepare to give Chief Adebanjo a befitting burial. They have also invited well-wishers to attend all the events. “We covet your prayers for the family and your professional support as we continue with the preparations to give him a most befitting burial,” the family stated. “We also look forward to your esteemed presence at all the events.”

VICE PRESIDENT KASHIM SHETTIMA MOURNS THE PASSING OF PA AYO ADEBANJO

Vice President Kashim Shettima has expressed his heartfelt condolences over the passing of Pa Ayo Adebanjo, a renowned leader of Afenifere, who died on Friday at the age of 96. In a statement, the Vice President described Pa Adebanjo as an advocate of a more equitable and progressive Nigeria, noting his extensive contributions to the country’s democratic journey. The Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media & Communications, Stanley Nkwocha, stated that Vice President Shettima paid glowing tribute to Pa Adebanjo, calling him “a living bridge that connected us to the foundational struggles of our democracy.” Nkwocha added that the Vice President praised Pa Adebanjo’s resolute and principled voice, which consistently advocated for a more equitable and progressive Nigeria until his final days. “We have not just lost a leader; we have lost an institution,” Vice President Shettima said. “In African tradition when such an elderly person transitions, a vital chapter of our history departs with them. Pa Adebanjo was indeed among one of the great titans, a living bridge that connected us to the foundational struggles of our democracy.” Nkwocha stated that Vice President Shettima also extended his condolences to Pa Adebanjo’s family, particularly his 94-year-old wife, Chief Christy Ayo-Adebanjo. Stanley Nkwocha noted that the Vice President expressed his hope that the family would “find the fortitude to bear this irreparable loss.” Pa Adebanjo passed away peacefully at his Lekki residence in Lagos State on Friday, February 14, 2025. He is survived by his wife, children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.

PDP MOURNS DEATH OF AFENIFERE LEADER CHIEF AYO ADEBANJO, DESCRIBES IT AS A NATIONAL TRAGEDY

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has expressed deep sadness over the death of Chief Ayo Adebanjo, a renowned elder statesman, nationalist, and advocate of democracy in Nigeria. In a statement, the National Publicity Secretary, Hon. Debo Ologunagba, described Chief Adebanjo’s death as a national tragedy, emphasizing that he was a fearless lawyer, forthright politician, and uncompromising democrat who stood for the people’s rights. Ologunagba noted that Chief Adebanjo was a national icon, a torchbearer, and a leading epitome of truth who passionately advocated for true federalism, restructuring, and devolution of powers. He added that Chief Adebanjo’s commitment to the unity, stability, and development of Nigeria was unwavering, and his death has left a huge blow to the nation. “His death at this critical time is therefore a huge blow to our nation as he left the stage when his wealth of experience, wisdom, and direction are needed the most,” Ologunagba said. Debo Ologunagba further stated that despite the mourning, the PDP finds solace in the fact that Chief Adebanjo lived an accomplished life, bequeathing innumerable legacies that will remain invaluable for generations to come. The PDP has commiserated with the Adebanjo family, the Afenifere family, the Government and people of Ogun State, and all lovers of democracy worldwide, praying that God grants them the fortitude to bear this great tragedy. Ologunagba concluded by reiterating the PDP’s condolences to all those affected by Chief Adebanjo’s passing.

PANDEF MOURNS THE PASSING OF PA AYO ADEBANJO, A GREAT TITAN OF NIGERIA

The Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF) has expressed profound shock and sadness over the passing of Pa Ayo Adebanjo, a legendary icon and elder statesman. In a statement, PANDEF National Chairman, Ambassador Godknows Igali, described Pa Adebanjo as a distinguished lawyer, politician, and statesman who dedicated 96 years to activism, championing justice, equality, and freedom for the Nigerian people. Pa Adebanjo played a pivotal role in shaping Nigeria’s history, even predating its independence. Throughout his illustrious career, he was a steadfast advocate for democratic governance, human rights, and social justice. “His relentless pursuit of a better Nigeria inspired generations to strive for excellence and demand accountability from their leaders,” Igali said. PANDEF acknowledged Pa Adebanjo’s contributions to the country’s struggle for independence, his role in shaping the Action Group and Afenifere, and his unwavering support for the marginalized and oppressed. The group also recognized his dedication to unity and intra-group collaboration, particularly in fostering relations between Afenifere and PANDEF. As co-founder and deputy chairman of the Southern and Middle Belt Forum, Pa Adebanjo continued to promote dialogue and understanding across Nigeria’s diverse regions. PANDEF joins other Nigerian patriots in celebrating Pa Adebanjo’s inspirational life, describing him as the last great titan of the Chief Obafemi Awolowo disciples. The group extended heartfelt condolences to Pa Adebanjo’s family, particularly his personal friend and partner, Chief E.K. Clark, and the great people of the Yoruba nation. “May they find solace in the enduring legacy he leaves behind for us all. May his soul rest in eternal peace,” Igali said.