Former presidential candidate of the Labour Party, Mr Peter Obi, on Friday mourned Pa Ayo Adebanjo, who passed away in the early hours of Friday......CONTINUE READING THE ARTICLE FROM THE SOURCE>>>>>
The late Adebanjo was an Afenifere leader. The group insisted on the South-East presidency in 2023 and supported Peter Obi against Bola Tinubu, who’s from the South-West. Tinubu won the election, while Obi came third behind Atiku Abubakar of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).
Obi described Adebanjo’s demise as “shocking,” saying he “was a great pillar in the struggle for a new Nigeria.”
While extending “our deepest condolences to the family and the Afenifere organisation,” Obi said his death “is a profound loss to Nigeria and to all who cherish justice, equity, and truth.”
He said as the leader of Afenifere, Pa Adebanjo remained a steadfast advocate for a united and progressive Nigeria.
He added that his unwavering commitment to fairness and his relentless pursuit of a better nation has left an indelible mark on Nigeria’s history.
“One thing my political journey in life taught me, for which I am eternally grateful to God, is bringing me close to a few great minds who helped to shape my perception of this land as a great country. One such person is Pa Ayo Adebanjo, the quintessential Afenifere leader,” Obi said.
He emphasised how “deeply grateful” he is to the late Afenifere leader “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,” Obi added.
Reminiscing, Obi said, “The last time I spoke with him, his words left a lasting impression: ‘Always stand on the path of justice.’ That advice remains a guiding principle in my life, and I reaffirm my commitment to upholding it in honour of his memory.
“In my association with Pa Adebanjo, I came to appreciate Nelson Mandela’s words, ‘I like friends who have independent minds because they tend to make you see problems from all angles.’
He said, “We mourn his departure; let us also celebrate a life well-lived in service to humanity and commit ourselves to upholding the values he so passionately championed.
“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?”