The Awolowo family has reacted to the death of Afenifere leader, Chief Ayo Adebanjo, describing the late chief as a remarkable leader who will be very difficult to forget.
The family stated this in a statement signed by Ambassador Dr. Olatokunbo Awolowo Dosumu.
The statement reads: “We received with profound sadness the passing of Chief Ayo Adebanjo, a staunch associate of Chief Obafemi Awolowo whose peaceful exit occurred today in his home in Lagos. As one of the last in a generation of pre-independence nationalists, his departure marks the end of an era.
“Chief Adebanjo’s relationship with our family spanned over 70 years. It is a fact of history that in peace and in war, he was in the trenches with Papa Chief Obafemi Awolowo and Yeye Odua, Chief Mrs H.I.D Awolowo. Decades after Papa’s transition, Chief Adebanjo stood true to his loyalty to his leader and to the ideas held dear by the political family to which he belonged. He was a dedicated champion of equitable governance, justice and equity for all Nigerians.
“As a paragon of integrity and consistency, the late Afenifere leader spent his very long years of political service standing firm against all forms of injustice and tyranny. His political engagements fostered alliances across regions, religions and ethnic groups.
“Chief Adebanjo was unwavering in leading calls for restructuring of the Nigerian nation along the path of true federalism. That was one battle he fought relentlessly till he breathed his last today. Chief Adebanjo’s remarkable life left an indelible mark on our nation’s history.
“In his death, our family has lost a friend and a confidant; Nigeria has lost a moral leader and father-figure. His transition has made the progressive family poorer. The consolation, however, is that he served Nigeria so conscientiously that he will be difficult to forget.
“It is our belief that while his contributions to national development inspire all in an enduring way, they will also serve as a guide to future generations of Nigerians.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with his wife and children, and other family members, friends, political associates and all who were touched by his exceptional life. May his great and gallant soul rest in eternal peace.”
ALSO READ TOP STORIES FROM NIGERIAN TRIBUNE