The family of the late Chief Ayo Adebanjo, leader of the Pan-Yoruba socio-cultural group, Afenifere, revealed the funeral details for the revered elder statesman on Thursday. Chief Adebanjo passed away on February 14 at the age of 96 at his Lekki residence in Lagos.
In a statement signed by his children, Mrs. Ayotunde Atteh and Mr. Obafemi Ayo-Adebanjo, the family shared that the funeral and church service will take place on May 3 at St. Phillips Anglican Church, Isanya Ogbo, near Ijebu Ode, Ogun State. A Thanksgiving Service will follow on May 4 at the same venue.
The family also announced that a Day of Tributes/Service of Songs will be held on April 30 at 2:00 p.m. at Eko Hotels & Suites, Victoria Island, Lagos. Additionally, a wake will take place on May 2 at 4:00 p.m. at Pa Ayo Adebanjo’s country home in Isanya Ogbo.
Expressing deep appreciation for the outpouring of support and prayers since his passing, the family invited well-wishers to join in celebrating the life of their patriarch. They said, “The family invites friends, colleagues, political associates, and the public to join them in paying final respects to a man whose courage, integrity, and unwavering belief in justice left an indelible mark on Nigeria’s political history.”
Providing a glimpse into the life of their late patriarch, the family shared that Chief Samuel Ayodele Adebanjo, popularly known as Chief Ayo Adebanjo or Pa Ayo Adebanjo, was born on April 10, 1928, in Ogun State, southwestern Nigeria. He was born to Joel Adebanjo Adedairo and Salamotu Odubanke.
Chief Adebanjo’s public career began as a journalist before he moved to the United Kingdom to study law. His political journey started in 1943 with the Zikist Movement, and in 1951, he joined the youth wing of the Action Group, becoming a political disciple of the late Chief Obafemi Awolowo.
Throughout his life, Chief Adebanjo was a steadfast advocate for democratic governance, true federalism, and the protection of Yoruba interests within Nigeria. He will be remembered as a giant in Nigeria’s nationalist struggle and a principled voice in the country’s post-independence political development.
Chief Adebanjo was widely respected for his lifelong commitment to democracy, Yoruba unity, and national progress.