Special Requiem for Late Pa Ayo Adebanjo, Gbenga Daniel
Today, we gather to pay our last respects to an icon, a leader, and a conscience of the Nigerian nation-Pa Ayo Adebanjo. His passage is not just the loss of a man, but the flipping of an exciting Page and the closing of a remarkable chapter in Nigeria’s socio-political history.
Pa Adebanjo was a man of deep convictions, a principled leader who never wavered in his pursuit of justice, equity, and the ideals of good governance. His commitment to the ‘Life More Abundant’ credo of our late sage, Chief Obafemi Awolowo, defined the content and character of his politics and activism.
One cannot but recall the major role that he played during the NADECO struggle.
While our paths may not have initially aligned during the 2003 gubernatorial elections, Pa Adebanjo, upon his understanding of the vision and policies of our administration, became one of our strongest and most consistent supporters despite not being in our Party at that time. His loyalty was never transactional; once convinced, he stood firm with us through thick and thin.
One of the most profound moments of his unwavering support was after my tenure in office as Governor in 2011. When I lost executive powers and faced politically-motivated charges, it was Pa Adebanjo, together with other revered Afenifere leaders, including Pa Reuben Fasoranti, Chief Olu Falae, Pa Olanihun Ajayi, and Chief Supo Shonibare and many others who, in an extraordinary display of solidarity, defied intimidation and publicly visited me at my Sagamu residence. Their presence sent a powerful message that justice and fairness would always triumph over political persecution. I remain forever grateful that I did not disappoint them and the Yoruba leadership that they represented, as I was later discharged and acquitted.
Beyond politics, Pa Adebanjo was a reconciler. I was honoured when he allowed me to mediate in a disagreement between him Senator Dr. Femi Okurounmu, another distinguished son of Ogun state, and who also was my lecturer in Engineering Thermodynamics at the University of Lagos in the 1970s. It was heartwarming to see Senator Okurounmu led a powerful Afenifere delegation to pay final respects to Pa Adebanjo, speaking glowingly of his legacy and the values that he represented.
Similarly, Pa Adebanjo demonstrated his commitment to peace when he permitted yet another mediation effort involving a foremost paramount ruler, under the overall supervision of former President Olusegun Obasanjo. Though often perceived as a man of unyielding resolve, but beneath that exterior lay a man of peace, wisdom, and an unwavering dedication to the common good.
In recent times, Pa Ayo Adebanjo rebuilt and recreated a bridge between the South West and the South East, as he was indeed a Nationalist.
In fact, history confirms that he was initially a Zikist of the old NCNC stock before becoming an “Action Grouper” and a protege of the late Sage, Chief Obafemi Awolowo.
Pa Adebanjo was deeply religious, a devoted son of Sanya Ogbo, his beloved community, and a man who cherished his family above all else. His life was a testament to the values of integrity, sacrifice, and love for humanity.
Pa Adebanjo was not just a man; he was an institution. His voice may be silent now, but his legacy will continue to inspire generations to come. How life was both the Question, as it was also the Answer.
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He revelled in telling us about Empire day in Oke Lamuren in those days before our country’s independence and he would sing and match as a school boy in Oke Lamuren. The song is as follows….’Oke Lamuren, Oke Lamuren, Oke Lamuren la ti nse Empire Day, E ma so pe a pe o…….’
May his soul find eternal rest and peace with his Maker.
I am eternally grateful for this great honour of allowing me to present a short eulogy of a great Ijebu son, a unique Yoruba man, a quintessential Nationalist and a pan Africanist.
May the gentle soul of Pa Ayo Adebanjo, one of the last titans rest in perfect peace. Amen
His Exc., The Senator
Otunba Engr Gbenga Daniel FNSE FAEng
Seunmanuel Faleye is a brand and communications strategist. He is a covert writer and an overt creative head. He publishes Apple’s Bite International Magazine.
