Stephen Ukandu, Umuahia
The family of Afenifere leader, Pa Ayo Adebanjo, has announced his demise. The Yoruba leader died on Friday, February 14, at the age of 96.
He died at his residence in Lekki, Lagos State.
The family confirmed his passing in a statement made available to newsmen on Friday.
“He died peacefully this morning, Friday, February 14, 2025, at his Lekki, Lagos Nigeria home at the age of 96,” the statement read.
“We will forever cherish his commitment to fighting for truth, equity, and justice. His belief and struggle for a truly independent and progressive Nigeria was total, and this he fought for until he breathed his last breath,” the statement added.
The family also disclosed that consultations are ongoing with Adebanjo’s friends, associates, and various interest groups across Nigeria and beyond to finalise plans for a befitting funeral. Details of the funeral arrangements will be announced in due course.
The statement was signed on behalf of the family by Mrs. Ayotunde Atteh (nee Ayo-Adebanjo), Mrs. Adeola Azeez (nee Ayo-Adebanjo), and Mr. Obafemi Ayo-Adebanjo.
Meanwhile, the family of the detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra, IPoB, Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, has expressed sadness over the death of the prominent Yoruba elder and Leader of Afenifere, Pa Ayo Adebanjo.
Kanu’s family said Adebanjo’s death was a big loss to Nigeria, noting that elders like he are rare.
Prince Emmanuel Kanu who spoke in Umuahia on behalf of the family, said he was a man of integrity and spoke the truth where many were too afraid to talk.
He said his replacement would be hard to come by, while praying God to grant members of the family the fortitude to bear his exit.
