Afenifere Leader, Ayo Adebanjo, Passes Away at 96 in Lagos

Chief Ayo Adebanjo, the esteemed leader of the Yoruba socio-cultural group Afenifere, has died peacefully at his Lekki residence in Lagos at the age of 96.

Pa Ayo Adebanjo, a notable leader of the Afenifere group, passed away at 96. He died on Friday morning at his home in Lekki, Lagos.

In a statement from his family, it was confirmed that he passed away peacefully. The announcement reads: “With immense gratitude for a selfless life devoted to serving God, the nation, and humanity, we share the news of our beloved patriarch’s passing—Chief Samuel Ayodele Adebanjo.”

He passed away peacefully at his home in Lekki, Lagos, Nigeria on the morning of Friday, February 14, 2025. He was 96 years old.

The prominent nationalist, respected elder statesman, renowned lawyer and politician known for advocating true federalism, who also served as the former organizing secretary of Action Group and was a national leader of Afenifere is survived by his 94-year-old wife Chief Christy Ayo-Adebanjo, along with their children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.

We will always honor his unwavering dedication to truth, equity, and justice. He was wholeheartedly committed to the vision of a truly independent and progressive Nigeria, advocating tirelessly for it until his final moments.

The family is in discussions with Papa’s friends, associates, and various interest groups both within Nigeria and internationally to finalize plans for an appropriate funeral. Further details will be shared soon.

A condolence register is available at his home in Lagos, located at 8 Ayo Adebanjo Close, Lekki Phase 1, as well as at his country residence in Isanya Ogbo near Ijebu Ode, Ogun State.