Two former Nigerian leaders, Dr. Goodluck Jonathan and Alhaji Atiku Abubakar, have paid a condolence visit to the family of the late Pa Ayo Adebanjo, the revered leader of Afenifere, who passed away just a few weeks ago. The visit, which took place at Pa Adebanjo’s home in Lekki, Lagos, was a moment to reflect on the late elder statesman’s life and the contributions he made to the nation.
Pa Adebanjo, widely regarded as a courageous and steadfast advocate for truth, justice, and unity, played a significant role in the political landscape of Nigeria. He was known for his unwavering stance on issues that promoted fairness and the betterment of society. His passing has left a void in both the Afenifere group and the country as a whole.
Speaking to the gathered family members and Afenifere leaders, former President Jonathan described Pa Adebanjo as a man of extraordinary wisdom, courage, and integrity. Jonathan, who had earlier issued a statement of condolence upon hearing of Pa Adebanjo’s passing, explained that words alone were not enough to honour the late leader. He felt it was important to visit the family in person to show support and share in the grief of his loss.
Jonathan, who was president of Nigeria from 2010 to 2015, said that Pa Adebanjo’s leadership transcended that of Afenifere alone. He was a leader for the entire nation, he argued, due to the values he held dear. “Our dear leader was not the leader of our Afenifere alone, he was a leader of this country,” Jonathan said during the visit. “He was a man with enormous wisdom, courage and the willingness to do the right thing for this country.”
The former president added that Pa Adebanjo’s commitment to truth and justice was the bedrock of his leadership. “He believed in truth, and he believed in justice,” Jonathan stated. “No nation can grow without these values. When there is no truth, when there is no justice, a nation cannot thrive. These were the things Pa Adebanjo was known for.”
Jonathan also paid tribute to Pa Adebanjo’s ability to lead with wisdom and resilience, especially during times when the nation faced challenges. His dedication to these core principles, Jonathan said, made him a great leader and role model for future generations.
In a similar vein, former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, who was also present during the condolence visit, paid his respects to the late Pa Adebanjo. Atiku described Pa Adebanjo’s death as a monumental loss not just to his immediate family or the Afenifere group, but to Nigeria as a whole.
Atiku, who has previously had the opportunity to engage with the late leader on multiple occasions, reflected on the enduring influence Pa Adebanjo had on him personally. “It is quite true that this house has hosted me a couple of times,” Atiku remarked, pointing to the residence where the visit took place. “What did I take away from this house? The virtues that Pa Adebanjo lived and preached throughout his life.”
The former vice president went on to highlight Pa Adebanjo’s role in fostering unity and peaceful coexistence within Nigeria. He highlighted that these were not just ideals Pa Adebanjo preached, but principles that he lived by every day. “So, it is a matter of honour and respect that after his demise we should come and pay respect to his life, his works, and his contributions to the unity and peaceful coexistence of this country,” Atiku said.
Pa Ayo Adebanjo, who was born in 1930, was one of the most prominent figures in Nigerian politics and a respected elder statesman. He was a lifelong member of Afenifere, a socio-political group that has advocated for the rights and well-being of the Yoruba people and promoted national unity in the country. Throughout his life, Adebanjo was known for his firm belief in justice and the need for fairness in all aspects of governance.
