Afeniferi Leader Ayo Adebanjo Dies At 96

By Reporter

Pa Ayo Adebanjo, a frontline politician, lawyer from Southwest region of Nigeria, and leader of the Pan-Yoruba socio-cultural group – Afeniferi, Chief Ayo Adebanjo, has died at the age of 96.

According to his family, he died peacefully at his residence in Lagos this morning, Friday, February 14, 2025.

His death was confirmed in a statement: “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.

The late Afeniferi leader is survived by his 94-year-old wife, Chief Christy Ayo-Adebanjo, 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 late Adebanjo was a journalist in his early life, before studying law in England and was called to the English Bar.

He started politics when he joined the Zikist in 1943 and became a follower of Dr. Nnamdi Azikiwe.

Eight years later, in 1951 he defected to the youth wing of the Action Group, and became an ardent follower of late Chief Obafemi Awolowo.

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