National leader of pan-Yoruba socio-political group, Afenifere, Chief Reuben Famuyide Fasoranti (OFR), has described his erstwhile deputy, Chief Ayo Adebanjo, who passed away, aged 96, as a patriot par excellence, and prayed that the good legacies of the late elder statesman would continue to thrive.
Chief Fasoranti, whose message was delivered by former Governor Olusegun Mimiko of Ondo State, said this on Sunday during a condolence visit to the Lekki, Lagos residence of the Late Chief Adebanjo, noting that the deceased elder statesman’s contributions during the struggle for Nigeria’s independence as well as during struggles for the restoration and sustenance of democracy in Nigeria shall remain indelible in the annals of Nigeria’s history.
Also, on same condolence visit were various groups within Afenifere both within and outside the country, prominent Yoruba citizens, including former Governor Kayode Fayemi of Ekiti State, among others, who all formally commiserated with the immediate and extended families of the deceased and reiterated their determination to have a rejuvenated Afenifere, while equally expressing their commitment to the progress of Yorubaland and a truly federal Nigeria.
Fasoranti further described the late elder statesman as an unrelenting ideologue who fought for several noble causes under the auspices of Afenifere where he was Acting Leader and a pillar of support.
Pa Fasoranti, who again expressed his condolences to the family members, according to a statement made available to newsmen, however, noted that though he was not physically present for the visit, but was fully with the family spiritually.
Also speaking, former Ekiti State Governor, Dr. Fayemi, described late Pa Adebanjo as a leader whose contributions cannot be forgotten.
According to him, Chief Adebanjo’s commitment to egalitarianism and a truly federal Nigeria is “something those of us left behind must keep pursuing vigorously.”
The Asiwaju of Yewa, Otunba Samuel Ibikunle, in his remark, also eulogised the late elder statesman and urged the youth to learn from the good virtues of elders so that their paths in life can be smooth.
Secretary General of Afenifere, Agbaakin Ademola Folarin, equally described the late Chief Adebanjo as a great leader and a highly notable patriot who would not be forgotten.
Others who also spoke, including Chief Wale Oshun and Chief Ayo Opadokun underscored Adebanjo’s tenacity, doggedness, and steadfastness in whatever he believed in.
The family of the late nonagenarian expressed appreciation for the honour done to their patriarch and gave the assurance that the good legacies of their father would be sustained.
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