Afenifere leader, Ayo Adebanjo, dies at 96

Leader of Afenifere and an Awoist, Pa Ayo Adebanjo, is dead.
The nonagenarian and leader of the pan-Yoruba socio-cultural organisation, died on Friday morning at his 8, Ayo Adebanjo Close, Lekki Phase 1, Lagos home at the age of 96.

He was jailed with the late Yoruba leader, Chief Obafemi Awolowo, in 1963.
Awolowo died in 1987.

The family of Adebanjo confirmed his passing in a statement on Friday signed by Mrs. Ayotunde Atteh (nee Ayo-Adebanjo), Mrs. Adeola Azeez (nee Ayo-Adebanjo), and Mr. Obafemi Ayo Adebanjo.

“He died peacefully this morning, Friday, February 14, 2025, at his at 8, Ayo Adebanjo Close, Lekki Phase 1, Lagos home at the age of 96,” the statement read.

Adebanjo, a distinguished lawyer and former organising secretary of the Action Group, is survived by his 94-year-old wife, Chief Christy Ayo-Adebanjo, along with children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.

“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 were 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 would be announced in due course, the family said.

A condolence register has been opened at his residence at 8, Ayo Adebanjo Close, Lekki Phase 1, Lagos, as well as his country home in Isanya Ogbo, near Ijebu Ode, Ogun State.