Chieftain of the pan-Yoruba socio-cultural organisation, Afenifere, Pa Ayodele Adebanjo, has died at the age of 96.
Adebanjo reportedly died on Friday morning at his residence in Lekki, Lagos State.
The death was confirmed in a statement by the family and made available to Punch on Friday.
The statement was jointly signed by his children, namely, Mrs. Ayotunde Atteh (nee Ayo-Adebanjo), Mrs. Adeola Azeez (nee Ayo-Adebanjo), and Mr. Obafemi Ayo-Adebanjo.
The statement reads:
“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 family also disclosed that consultations are ongoing with Adebanjo’s friends, associates, and various interest groups across the country and beyond to finalise plans for a befitting funeral.
Details of the funeral arrangements according to the family will be announced in due course.
Meanwhile,a condolence register has been opened at his residence in Lagos and his country home in Isanya Ogbo, near Ijebu Ode, Ogun State.
The elder statesman is survived by his 94-year-old wife, Chief Christy Ayo-Adebanjo, along with children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.