April 10, 1928 – February 14, 2025
Early Life and Education
Born on April 10, 1928, in Isanya Ogbo, a village near Ijebu Ode in Ogun State, Nigeria, Samuel Ayodele Adebanjo was the only child of his mother. His father, Chief Joel Adedairo Adebanjo, was a goldsmith who relocated the family to Lagos shortly after Ayo’s birth. In Lagos, young Adebanjo began his education at Saint Saviour’s Primary School, Elegbaata, between 1934 and 1935. He continued at Holy Trinity School, Ebute Ero, from 1937 to 1941 and completed his primary education at Cathedral School in 1943. After his schooling, he secured a position in the Ministry of Health in 1950, working in the department responsible for registering births and deaths. However, his tenure was cut short due to his involvement in pro-independence demonstrations, leading to his dismissal for allegedly being rude to an expatriate. This early encounter with colonial authority ignited his passion for activism and nation-building.
Political Awakening and Activism
Adebanjo’s political journey commenced in 1943 when he became a follower of Dr. Nnamdi Azikiwe, aligning himself with the Zikist movement. This involvement marked the beginning of his lifelong commitment to Nigeria’s political evolution. In 1951, he transitioned to the Action Group (AG), a political party founded by Chief Obafemi Awolowo. Within the AG, Adebanjo emerged as a prominent member of the youth wing and was appointed as the party’s Organising Secretary. His dedication to the party’s ideals and his organisational prowess solidified his position as a key player in Nigeria’s push for self-governance.
Exile and Legal Pursuits
The political turbulence of the early 1960s, particularly the treasonable felony trial against Chief Awolowo and other AG leaders, forced Adebanjo into exile in Ghana in 1962. During this period, he faced charges alongside 30 others, highlighting the risks he was willing to take for his political beliefs. While in exile, Adebanjo decided to further his education by studying law in the United Kingdom. He was called to the English Bar at Lincoln’s Inn in 1961. Upon returning to Nigeria, he joined Chief Awolowo’s chambers, integrating his legal expertise with his political activism.
A Stalwart of Awoism and Afenifere
Throughout his life, Adebanjo remained a steadfast disciple of Chief Awolowo, embracing the principles of ‘Awoism.’ This ideology emphasised free education, free healthcare, rural development, and federalism. In 1993, in response to the annulment of the June 12 presidential election, Adebanjo co-founded Afenifere, a pan-Yoruba socio-cultural organisation. As a leader within Afenifere, he championed the causes of democracy, true federalism, and regional autonomy. His unwavering commitment to these ideals made him a respected voice in national discourse, advocating for restructuring Nigeria into a true federal state to address ethnic tensions and economic disparities.
Personal Life and Legacy
Adebanjo was married to Chief Christy Ayo-Adebanjo for over 60 years, and their union was blessed with children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. He passed away peacefully at his Lekki, Lagos residence on February 14, 2025, at the age of 96. His family, in a statement, expressed deep gratitude for his selfless service to God, the nation, and humanity, stating, “We will forever cherish his commitment to fighting for truth, equity, and justice.” Condolence registers have been opened at his residence in Lagos and his country home in Isanya Ogbo, near Ijebu Ode, Ogun State.
As Nigerians reflect on the life of Pa Ayo Adebanjo, they remember a man whose unwavering dedication to democracy, justice, and equity left an indelible mark on the nation’s history. His legacy continues to inspire those committed to the principles of fairness and true federalism in Nigeria.
