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Former President Olusegun Obasanjo, ex-Vice President Prof. Yemi Osinbajo, Labour Party 2023 presidential candidate Peter Obi, and Governors Babajide Sanwo-Olu (Lagos) and Seyi Makinde (Oyo) were among the prominent figures who gathered to honour the late Afenifere leader, Pa Ayo Adebanjo, at his funeral service on Saturday, May 3.
The event, held at St. Phillip Anglican Church in Isanya Ogbo, Odogbolu Local Government Area of Ogun State, also drew tributes from Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun, who described Adebanjo as a man of integrity, a defender of justice, and a relentless advocate for true federalism.
Governor Abiodun praised the late elder statesman as a courageous democrat who stood firm against military dictatorship and played a significant role in Nigeria’s democratic evolution.
Other dignitaries present at the service included former Ogun governors Gbenga Daniel and Senator Ibikunle Amosun, Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) Governor Yemi Cardoso, and former Ogun Deputy Governor Senator Adegbenga Kaka.
Pa Adebanjo, a revered lawyer, politician, and one of the last living associates of the late Obafemi Awolowo, passed away in Lagos on February 14, 2025, at the age of 96.
“Chief Adebanjo was a dogged fighter of true federalism. He persistently argued that Nigeria’s over centralised system of government bred economic imbalance and ethnic tension,” Abiodun said.
“Under his leadership, Afenifere, the Pan Yoruba socio-political group was revitalised becoming a potent force with democratic wisdom pushing for regional integration, restructuring and devolution of powers.
“Beyond politics, he was deeply committed to preserving the rich Yoruba culture, he denounced nepotism, corruption and impunity whenever they rear up their ugly heads and becoming a moral compass for all.
“As Nigeria continues his walk towards democratic consolidation, the life of Chief Ayo Adebanjo remains a timeless blueprint for Nigeria, one defined by courage, conviction and unbending integrity.
“Beyond the grave, Chief Adebanjo still speaks to the meaning of existence.
“His ideals will continue to live on the heart of millions and his contributions shall continue to serve as path to building a just, united and truly federal Nigeria,” he added.
Delivering the sermon at the funeral of Pa Ayo Adebanjo, the Archbishop of Lagos Ecclesiastical Province and Bishop of the Remo Diocese, Most Rev. Michael Fape, called on Nigerians, especially those in leadership, to lead lives of purpose and selflessness, just as the late elder statesman did.
Speaking on the theme ‘The Purpose of a Glorious Life’, drawn from John 18:37-38, Bishop Fape emphasized the inevitability of death and urged all to reflect on how meaningfully they are using the time they have.
He noted that what defines a person’s legacy is not the length of their life, but the impact they make while alive.
The cleric described Jesus Christ as the ultimate example of purposeful living, having come into the world to fulfill God’s mission of salvation.
In a similar vein, he praised Adebanjo for dedicating his life to the pursuit of democracy, justice, equity, and good governance.
Bishop Fape urged current leaders at all levels to emulate Adebanjo’s courage and integrity, stressing that Nigeria could witness real progress if public servants and citizens alike chose to serve selflessly and work towards the collective good.
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