By Amofokhai Williams
Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has paid heartfelt tributes to the late Afenifere leader, Chief Ayo Adebanjo, hailing him as a committed nationalist, an unyielding advocate for democracy, and a man of integrity.
Obasanjo, in a statement released by his Special Assistant on Media, Kehinde Akinyemi, described Adebanjo’s death as a “huge personal loss” and a “monumental tragedy for Ogun State and Nigeria as a whole.”
Speaking from Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, where he was attending the 38th Ordinary Session of the African Union Assembly, Obasanjo recalled his last visit to Adebanjo’s residence on 3rd February 2025, expressing shock at his passing.
“Although he was frail, I never imagined he would leave us so soon. His transition is a great loss not only to me but to the entire nation. He was a great man, a dedicated nationalist, and a selfless leader who served his people with integrity,” Obasanjo stated.
He described Adebanjo as a pillar of democracy, whose unrelenting pursuit of justice and good governance made him a respected elder statesman.
“As a foundation member of the Action Group, he exemplified principled leadership. He demonstrated that politics is not a platform for self-enrichment but an avenue for dedicated service to humanity,” Obasanjo remarked.
The former president also acknowledged Adebanjo’s relentless push for restructuring, regretting that his dream for Nigeria’s transformation remained unfulfilled.
“Until his last breath, he fought courageously for the restructuring of Nigeria to ensure justice, equity, and national unity. It is unfortunate that he did not live to see this vision realised,” Obasanjo lamented.
Expressing deep sorrow, he extended his condolences to Adebanjo’s family, saying: “I will miss my beloved Egbon Ayo dearly, but I will cherish the remarkable moments we shared until we meet again.”
