Nigeria on Saturday paid its final respects to Pa Samuel Ayo Adebanjo, the late elder statesman, nationalist, and leader of the Pan-Yoruba socio-political group, Afenifere, in a ceremony marked by glowing tributes, national reflection, and calls for purposeful leadership. The funeral, held at St. Philip’s Anglican Church in Isanya-Ogbo, Ijebu, Ogun State, drew an assembly of prominent Nigerian political figures, clerics, and civil society leaders.

Among the dignitaries present were former President Olusegun Obasanjo, former Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate Peter Obi, and governors Dapo Abiodun (Ogun), Babajide Sanwo-Olu (Lagos), and Seyi Makinde (Oyo). Also in attendance were former Ogun governors Gbenga Daniel and Ibikunle Amosun, former Minister of Education Oby Ezekwesili, CBN Governor Yemi Cardoso, NADECO leader Ayo Opadokun, and several senators, including Kofoworola Bucknor-Akerele, Femi Okurounmu, and Adegbenga Kaka.

The remains of the late Adebanjo, described as one of the last disciples of Obafemi Awolowo, were laid to rest at his residence in Odoogbolu Local Government Area, Ogun State, at approximately 1:54 p.m.

A Life of Purpose and Principle

In his sermon themed “The Glory of a Purposeful Life,” Olusina Fape, the Bishop of the Diocese of Remo and Archbishop of the Ecclesiastical Province of Lagos, hailed Adebanjo as a “progressive democrat par excellence” who lived with conviction and consistency, unlike many contemporary politicians he described as “chameleons” who jump between parties without clear ideology.

Fape emphasized that Adebanjo’s political career—from the Action Group to the Alliance for Democracy—was defined by loyalty to principle rather than opportunism. He lamented that the passing of ideologically grounded figures like Adebanjo and Awolowo could deepen the emergence of political parties without clear philosophical foundations.

“He never compromised his beliefs for political gain. His life reflected the ideals of honesty, integrity, and fearless commitment to truth and justice.”

Fape warned that many modern politicians lacked purpose, seeking only power and wealth, and called for a generational reassessment of political motives. Quoting Myles Munroe, he said, “When the purpose of a thing is not known, abuse becomes inevitable.” He charged Nigerians to reflect on whether their lives would be remembered for meaning and service.

A Voice for Justice and Federalism

In his tribute, Governor Dapo Abiodun described Adebanjo as a “dogged crusader for true federalism” and a symbol of Yoruba resistance to marginalization and cultural erosion. He said Adebanjo’s fierce opposition to military rule, his activism during the June 12 crisis, and his enduring support for democratic ideals made him a “moral compass” in Nigeria’s turbulent political history.

“Chief Adebanjo stood as a firm advocate of justice, fairness, and the rule of law. He was never silent in the face of injustice and nepotism,” Abiodun said.

The governor also likened Adebanjo’s philosophy to that of Martin Luther King Jr., saying the late leader believed deeply in the principle that “injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere.”

A National Icon, a Federalist to the End

In a condolence message read during the service, former Head of State Abdulsalami Abubakar described Adebanjo as “a great federalist, a reliable and consistent fighter for democracy,” noting that his life’s work should serve as a model for current and future generations.

Abubakar acknowledged that the void left by Adebanjo’s passing would be hard to fill but urged Nigerians to hold firmly to the principles the late icon embodied.

The funeral of Pa Ayo Adebanjo, though marking the end of a significant chapter in Nigeria’s political journey, served as a stirring reminder of the power of purposeful leadership, ideological consistency, and unwavering dedication to national unity.