Former Governor of Ogun State and Senator representing Ogun East Senatorial District, Otunba Gbenga Daniel, has paid tribute to the late Afenifere leader, Pa Ayo Adebanjo, describing him as “one of the last Titans” in Nigerian politics.
In a statement released today, Senator Daniel extolled the virtues of the late Yoruba leader, particularly highlighting his exceptional oratory skills and unwavering commitment to his principles. “His ability to stand firm on his convictions and his strength of purpose for whatever he believed in was exemplary, as was his legendary oratory power,” Daniel stated.
The former governor emphasized Pa Adebanjo’s connection to the political philosophy of the late Chief Obafemi Awolowo, noting that he belonged to “the old Awo stock in Yoruba ethos.” According to Daniel, Pa Adebanjo consistently championed the values of fairness, equity, and justice throughout his lifetime, principles “for which he fought to his last breath.”
Lamenting the loss to both state and nation, Daniel stressed that “Nigeria shall surely miss his invaluable contributions to our national discourse as we search for true federalism and statehood.” He added that both Ogun State and the entire Yoruba nation have lost another icon.
Pa Ayo Adebanjo was a veteran of Nigerian politics and a prominent Yoruba leader who dedicated over seven decades to political activism and democratic struggles. Rising through the ranks as a loyal protégé of Chief Obafemi Awolowo in the Action Group party of the First Republic, he became one of the most influential voices in Afenifere, the pan-Yoruba sociocultural organization. Throughout his life, he remained a persistent advocate for restructuring and true federalism, earning respect across political divisions for his principled stance on national issues and his fearless advocacy for a more equitable Nigeria.
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.
