The Founder of Jigin-Mbi Royal Foundation, Dr Emanuel Kalejaiye,Oloye Asoju Oba Iraye-Remo , has described the demise of Pa Ayo Adebanjo, the foremost Yoruba leader and Chairman of the Pan-Yoruba socio-political organisation, Afenifere, as a colossal loss to Yoruba race and the country at large.
Pa Adebanjo, aged 96, a highly successful lawyer, politician and ardent follower of the late sage, Chief Obafemi Awolowo, died on Friday peacefully at his Lekki residence, Lagos.
Dr Kalejaiye,residing in Poland, in a statement on Friday has however expressed his sadness over the passage of this political titan given his commitment and sacrifice to enshrining good governance and sound democratic ideals in the country.
The philanthropist said “I am sad to receive the demise of this great lawyer, politician, advocate of true federalism and foremost Yoruba leader, Pa Ayo Adebanjo.
“Though, Baba left us at an advanced age of 96 but we would have loved to have him much more around given his pedigree, his integrity and unblemished commitment towards an egalitarian, just and prosperous Nigeria.
“Pa Adebanjo’s passage at this time when the country is in need of wise counsel from elder-statesmen like him to navigate around its challenges make it more painful.
“We however take consolation in the fact that the late nationalist left behind enduring commitment to democratic ideals of justice, equity, fairness and good governance.
“I, hereby send my heartfelt condolences to the family of Pa Ayo Adebanjo at home and in diaspora and particularly, the good people and government of Ogun State over the demise of this illustrious Nigerian from Isanya Ogbo, Ijebu in Odogbolu Local Government area of Ogun State. May his soul rest in peace”.
