The family of the late Chief Samuel Ayodele Adebanjo, the Afenifere leader and strong nationalist voice in Nigeria’s post-independence politics, has released a detailed funeral programme to honour his life and legacy.
Adebanjo, who died on February 14 at the age of 96 in his Lekki, Lagos residence, will be laid to rest in his hometown, Isanya Ogbo, near Ijebu Ode, Ogun State, on Friday, May 3, following a series of ceremonies celebrating his storied contributions to Nigeria’s political evolution.
According to a statement issued by the Adebanjo family on Thursday, the farewell rites will commence with a Day of Tributes and Service of Songs on Tuesday, April 30, at 2:00 p.m., at Eko Hotels & Suites, Victoria Island, Lagos.
A wake will follow on Thursday, May 2, at 4:00 p.m., at Pa Ayo Adebanjo’s country home in Isanya Ogbo, Ogun State.
The funeral/church service will take place on Friday, May 3, at St. Phillips Anglican Church, Isanya Ogbo, while a thanksgiving service is scheduled for Saturday, May 4, at the same venue.
The family said, “The family invites friends, colleagues, political associates, and the general public to join them in paying final respects to a man whose courage, integrity, and unwavering belief in justice left an indelible mark on Nigeria’s political history.
“We welcome well-wishers to participate in celebrating the life of our patriarch. His ideals and his lifelong pursuit of justice and fairness remain a beacon for generations to come.”
Born on April 10, 1928, in Ogun State, Adebanjo was the son of Joel Adebanjo Adedairo and Salamotu Odubanke. He began his public journey as a journalist before proceeding to the United Kingdom to study law.
His political odyssey took root in 1943 as a member of the Zikist Movement, the nationalist youth arm inspired by Dr. Nnamdi Azikiwe. By 1951, he joined the youth wing of the Action Group, where he became a political disciple of the late Chief Obafemi Awolowo, Nigeria’s foremost federalist and the first Premier of the Western Region.
Chief Ayo Adebanjo championed the cause of true federalism, democratic governance, and the advancement of Yoruba interests within the Nigerian federation until his last days.