The Senate on Thursday paid tribute to Chief Ayo Adebanjo, the late nationalist, political activist, and staunch advocate for democracy, who passed away at the age of 96.
The emotional session, led by Senate President Godswill Akpabio, underscored Adebanjo’s contributions to Nigeria’s democratic evolution and his unwavering stance on justice, fairness, and good governance.
The session began with Senator Otunba Gbenga Daniel (Ogun East) moving a motion to honor Adebanjo’s legacy. Acknowledging the urgency and importance of the motion, the Senate President granted an exception to the rule limiting urgent motions to one per sitting, allowing the Senate to fully recognize the late statesman’s achievements.
The Ogun senator while presenting his motion indicated that Adebanjo was born on February 10, 1928, in Isoye Ogo, Ogun State, Adding that his journey from journalism to law led him to become a disciple of Chief Obafemi Awolowo, a key figure in Nigeria’s early political movements.
His political activism according to Daniel saw him flee to Ghana in 1962 during the treason trial of Awolowo, leading to multiple arrests and detentions over the years.
“He played a crucial role in NADECO (National Democratic Coalition) protests following the annulment of the June 12, 1993 election, where he, alongside other pro-democracy fighters—including now-President Bola Ahmed Tinubu—opposed military rule.
“His relentless push for true federalism and restructuring remained central to his advocacy until his final days.
In the session, multiple senators shared personal reflections on Adebanjo’s life and impact.
Senator Henry Seriake Dickson (Bayelsa West) described him as “a titan of democracy who remained unapologetic in his fight for equity and justice.” He also noted Adebanjo’s deep ties to progressive political movements and his mentorship of younger leaders.
According to him, the death of Adebanjo happens few days before his close ally in Edwin Clark said the duo may still be planning on the other side for a way to better Nigeria
Senator Mohammed Ali Ndume (Borno South), recalling the June 12 struggle, emphasized that “our democracy today stands on the sacrifices of men like Pa Adebanjo.”
Senator Opeyemi Bamidele (Ekiti Central) praised his moral integrity, stating, “Adebanjo was never a politician of convenience; he was a leader of principle.”
The Senate unanimously passed three resolutions to honor the late Adebanjo, observing a minute of silence in his honor, Sending a high-powered delegation to condole with his family and the Ogun State government and urging the federal government to immortalize him by naming a national monument after him.
In his closing remarks, Senate President Akpabio urged Nigerians to see Adebanjo’s passing not as a loss but as “a celebration of a life dedicated to the betterment of Nigeria.”
He praised his courage, resilience, and unyielding commitment to the ideals of democracy.
As Nigeria bids farewell to one of its most vocal and fearless advocates, the legacy of Pa Ayo Adebanjo remains a guiding light for those who continue the struggle for justice, equity, and a truly democratic nation.