Peter Obi, the Labour Party’s presidential candidate in the 2023 general election, Ondo Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa, the Aare Ona Kakanfo of Yorubaland, Gani Adams, and other prominent Nigerians have paid tributes to the late Afenifere leader, Ayo Adebanjo, who died at 96 at his residence in Lekki, Lagos State, on Friday.

Messrs Obi, Aiyedatiwa, and Adams, and others expressed sadness over the death of the nationalist in separate statements.

Mr Obi described Mr Adebanjo’s death as a profound loss to the country, saying he was a steadfast advocate for a united and progressive Nigeria. He also recalled how Mr Adebanjo supported his presidential ambition.

“I remain deeply grateful for his support during my presidential campaign. His endorsement was not merely a political gesture but a testament to his belief in the ideals of equity and inclusiveness. He stood firm in his convictions against all odds, demonstrating his dedication to the greater good of Nigeria.

“May his death not be in vain. Instead, let it serve as a renewed call to action for all who believe in justice and fairness. As we extend our condolences to his immediate family and the Afenifere organisation, may we find solace in the enduring impact of his remarkable life,” said Mr Obi.

Also, in a statement, Ondo State Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa said Mr Adebanjo dedicated his life to serving the people, demonstrating unwavering commitment to democracy, justice, and equality in the country.

“His tireless efforts to promote peace, stability, and prosperity have left an indelible mark on our country’s history. I extend my heartfelt condolences to his family and loved ones. May they find comfort in the knowledge that his legacy will continue to inspire future generations of leaders and citizens,” Mr Aiyedatiwa said.

Similarly, Mr Adams, in a short condolence message on his X, prayed that Mr Adebanjo’s labour while on earth would not be in vain.

“May Pa Adebanjo Rest in Peace. May all your labour towards a great Yorùbáland never be in Vain in the name of Olodumare. Continue to rest, sir: Greet Awolowo and other great Yorùbá leaders on the other side. May Almighty God be with your family, Ase,” Mr Adams wrote.

Also mourning the late Afenifere leader, former Ogun East senator and former governor Gbenga Daniel said he was “one of the last Titans” whose ability to stand firm on his convictions and his strength of purpose for whatever he believed in was exemplary.

“Pa Adebanjo was of the old Awo stock in Yoruba ethos, reminding us every inch of the way about the value of fairness, equity and justice, values for which he fought to his last breath.

“Nigeria shall surely miss his invaluable contributions to our national discourse as we search for true federalism and statehood. Ogun State and the entire Yoruba nation have again lost another icon,” Mr Daniel said.

President Bola Tinubu’s special assistant on media and publicity, Temitope Ajayi, also eulogised the “grand old Awoist” for spending his entire young and adult life working and fighting for a more just and fairer society.

“I got to interview him in 2003 for Punch Newspaper at his Aguda, Surulere residence. Even when you disagree with him and his methods, you can’t ignore his passion. His total devotion to Nigeria, his Yoruba race and his sense of patriotism was exemplary. His job on this side of eternity ended today, and his memories will be cherished,” Mr Ajayi said.

Mr Adebanjo is survived by his 94-year-old wife, Christy Ayo-Adebanjo, children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

A condolence register has been opened at his Lekki residence and his country home in Isanya Ogbo, near Ijebu Ode, Ogun State.