Nigeria lost a figure – Southern, Middle Belt leaders mourn Adebanjo
Chief Ayo Adebanjo was a highly esteemed leader of Afenifere, the pan-Yoruba socio-cultural organization, and his passing has been lamented by the Southern, Middle Belt Leaders Forum (SMBLF).
Pa Ayo Adebanjo was also a co-founder of SMBLF and served as its Deputy National Leader until his passing, according to SMBLF.
Pa Edwin Kiagbodo Clark, the leader of the SMBLF, Sen. Azuta-Nbata, the president general of Ohanaeze, Ambassador (Dr.) God knows Igali, Dr. Pogu Bitrus, the president of the Middle Belt Forum, and Barr. John Nnia Nwodo, the coordinator, jointly released a statement explaining that the departure of Pa Ayo Adebanjo signified the end of an era and left a significant gap in Nigeria’s political and sociocultural landscape.
The statement said, “On behalf of the people of Southern Nigeria and the Middle Belt, we extend our heartfelt condolences to his immediate family, the Yoruba nation, and the entire country. “Chief Adebanjo’s life was a beacon of integrity, justice, and unwavering commitment to democratic principles.” The statement described Adebanjo as a nationalist, who dedicated his life to the advancement of Nigeria, advocating for equity, fairness, and good governance, saying that unlike many of his contemporaries who wavered in their convictions, he remained resolute in his belief that Nigeria could only thrive on the foundation of true federalism and justice for all ethnic groups.
