The President extended heartfelt condolences to the family of Adebanjo, the leadership of Afenifere, the governors of the Southwest, and all Nigerians who shared in the late leader’s vision for a better nation. “Let us take solace in the enduring legacy of a man who dedicated his life to the service of others—a legacy that will continue to inspire generations to come. May the soul of this great patriot rest in eternal peace,” President Tinubu said.
The President also acknowledged Adebanjo’s significant role in his political journey, particularly during Tinubu’s election as Governor of Lagos State in 1999 under the Alliance for Democracy. “I had a deep personal bond with Baba Adebanjo; he was like a father figure to me,” Tinubu remarked.
Reflecting on Adebanjo’s bravery, Tinubu recalled the late leader’s pivotal role in the fight for the restoration of democracy in Nigeria, especially through his involvement with the National Democratic Coalition (NADECO) following the annulment of the June 12, 1993 presidential election. “In times of national crisis, Baba’s courage shone brightest. When democracy was at risk, he was one of the leading voices in NADECO, helping to galvanize a movement that became the foundation of our collective struggle for democratic governance,” the President stated.
Tinubu further described Adebanjo as one of the last surviving nationalists who played a vital role in shaping Nigeria’s political landscape. “From his early days as the Organizing Secretary of the Action Group in the First Republic to his leadership in the Unity Party of Nigeria during the Second Republic, Adebanjo remained steadfast in his pursuit of good governance,” he said.
In a personal condolence message released on Friday, Tinubu paid tribute to Adebanjo’s legacy, acknowledging his unwavering commitment to Nigeria’s progress and national unity. “All who knew Baba Adebanjo were enriched by his boundless wisdom and cherished the democratic ideals he relentlessly championed. As a nation, we will miss his frequent interventions in national affairs, which significantly enriched our political discourse.”
“While we mourn his passing, we are also grateful to God for blessing him with a long and remarkable life—96 years of tireless advocacy for progress and equity,” Tinubu continued. He concluded, “His principled voice, which reverberated through decades of political activism, will be sorely missed.”