CITIZENS COMPASS – Chief Ayo Adebanjo, the leader of Afenifere, the Pan-Yoruba socio-cultural group, is dead.
He was 96-year-old.
The elder statesman died peacefully at his residence in Lekki, Lagos State, on Friday, February 14, 2025.
The family confirmed this in a statement on Friday.
It was signed by his daughters, Mrs. Ayotunde Atteh (nee Ayo-Adebanjo), Mrs. Adeola Azeez (nee Ayo-Adebanjo), and Mr. Obafemi Ayo Adebanjo.
It reads, “With a heart full of gratitude for a selfless life spent in the service of God, the nation and humanity, we announce the passing on of our beloved patriarch, Chief Samuel Ayodele Adebanjo.
“He died peacefully this morning, Friday, February 14, 2025, at his Lekki, Lagos Nigeria home at the age of 96,” the family 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.
He is survived by his 94-year-old widow, Chief Christy Ayo-Adebanjo, children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
At press time, burial plans were yet to be announced.
A condolence register has been opened at his residence in Lagos (8, Ayo Adebanjo Close, Lekki Phase 1, Lagos) and his country home in Isanya Ogbo, near Ijebu Ode, Ogun State.
Notable Yoruba sons and daughters have thronged his residence to condole with the family.
