Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has paid tribute to the late Afenifere leader, Pa Ayo Adebanjo, describing his death as a monumental loss to Nigeria. Speaking during a condolence visit to the elder statesman’s home in Lekki, Lagos, Atiku reflected on the inevitability of death and the legacy Pa Adebanjo left behind.
Atiku, who had visited Adebanjo’s residence multiple times during his lifetime, emphasized the virtues the late leader embodied. “It is quite true that this house has hosted me a couple of times. What did I take away from this house? The virtues that Pa Adebanjo lived and preached throughout his life,” he stated.
Pa Ayo Adebanjo, a prominent voice in Nigeria’s socio-political space and a staunch advocate for national unity, passed away on Friday, February 14, 2025, at the age of 96. His death has drawn tributes from various dignitaries across the country.
Following his passing, his residence has become a gathering place for political and religious figures, including former Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, Labour Party’s Peter Obi, and the General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God, Pastor Enoch Adeboye, all of whom have come to pay their last respects.
Atiku described Adebanjo’s contributions as invaluable, particularly in fostering peace and unity in Nigeria. “So, it is a matter of honor, respect that after his demise, we should come and pay respect to his life, his works, his contributions to the unity and peaceful coexistence of this country,” he said.
The former vice president also noted the personal impact Adebanjo had on him, saying he was not just a political figure but a mentor and guide. “He was a father, he was an adviser, he was a guide in what we have set to do for this country, and he has always made sure that he told us the truth and nothing but the truth,” he added.
Atiku acknowledged the deep pain the family must be going through but urged them to take solace in the fact that Adebanjo lived a remarkable life. “His loss is a monumental loss to the immediate family and to those of us who have admired him and tried to emulate his ways of life and his belief in the unity of this country,” he said.
Reflecting on the inevitability of death, Atiku emphasized the importance of living a life of purpose. “We all have to go one day, but with some God, he lived a worthy life and a life that can rarely be compared to so many people,”he remarked.
He assured the Adebanjo family of his continued support, stating that honoring the late leader also means standing by those he left behind. “We are here to condole the family, to let you know that we share your loss because he was also a father to us,” Atiku said.
