The family of the late Afenifere factional leader and Yoruba elder statesman, Chief Ayo Adebanjo, has formally announced the burial arrangements for the respected nationalist and political icon, who passed away recently at the age of 96.

The announcement, made through a statement signed by the Adebanjo family on Thursday, detailed a week-long program of activities to honor the life, legacy, and contributions of the late Adebanjo, widely regarded as a fearless advocate for democracy, restructuring, and justice in Nigeria.

According to the family, the funeral proceedings will begin with a commendation service in Lagos before moving to his hometown in Ogun State for final interment.

A Life Dedicated to Service and Advocacy

Chief Ayo Adebanjo, who died peacefully in his Lagos residence after a brief illness, was a founding member of Afenifere, the pan-Yoruba socio-political group, and a prominent disciple of the late Chief Obafemi Awolowo. Until his passing, he was a strong voice for progressive ideals, good governance, and equity across Nigeria’s regions.

Often described as a principled and outspoken patriot, Adebanjo was known for his relentless call for true federalism and constitutional reform, as well as his support for the younger generation of leaders.

His family, in the statement, said: “Our father, grandfather, and patriarch lived a life of purpose. He was unwavering in his beliefs and committed to the ideals of justice, fairness, and the progress of the Yoruba nation and Nigeria as a whole. We are grateful for the outpouring of love and tributes since his passing.”

Full Burial Schedule Released

The family unveiled a comprehensive schedule to celebrate the life of the late nationalist:

• Day 1: Sunday (Thanksgiving and Hymns Night)
  A special thanksgiving service and night of hymns will be held in Lagos to kick off the week-long celebration of life. The event is expected to draw members of the clergy, family friends, traditional rulers, and Yoruba socio-political groups.

• Day 2: Monday (Symposium on Legacy and National Impact)
  A national colloquium themed “Legacy of Chief Ayo Adebanjo: Voice of Reason in Turbulent Times” will take place at a major conference center in Ikeja, Lagos. Esteemed speakers from across the political and civil society spectrum are expected, including former governors, academics, and youth activists.

• Day 3: Tuesday (Lying-in-State and Commendation Service in Lagos)
  Adebanjo’s remains will be laid in state for public viewing at the Lagos State Government House Banquet Hall, followed by a commendation service to be attended by state officials and dignitaries.

• Day 4: Wednesday (Service of Songs in Ijebu Ode)
  A traditional Yoruba service of songs and cultural tributes will be held in his hometown, Ijebu Ode, Ogun State, led by community elders and local leaders.

• Day 5: Thursday (Funeral Service and Burial)
  The funeral service will be held at the Cathedral Church of St. Paul, Ijebu Ode, followed by interment at the Adebanjo family compound. Attendance will include national political leaders, traditional rulers, and representatives of pan-Yoruba organizations.

• Day 6: Friday (Thanksgiving Reception and Tributes)
  The final day of ceremonies will include a thanksgiving reception and a community outreach program in line with the values of charity and public service that Chief Adebanjo championed.

Tributes Pour In

Since news of Adebanjo’s death broke, tributes have continued to pour in from across Nigeria and the diaspora. Political leaders, cultural organizations, civil rights activists, and youth groups have all celebrated his principled stand on national unity and integrity.

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, in a condolence message, described Adebanjo as “a moral compass in the nation’s political journey and an elder statesman who stood by his beliefs without fear.”

Former President Olusegun Obasanjo noted that Adebanjo “epitomized courage and conviction, often speaking truth to power without compromise.”

The Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, praised the late statesman for his unwavering commitment to Yoruba cultural identity and national cohesion, saying, “Baba Adebanjo lived a long, impactful life that inspired generations of Yoruba sons and daughters.”

Youths and advocacy groups also joined in celebrating his life, with the Yoruba Youth Assembly describing him as “a father who never gave up on the dream of a united and restructured Nigeria.”

Afenifere to Host Special Tribute

The Afenifere group, which Adebanjo helped steer through decades of political turbulence, has announced that it will host a special tribute event in his honor. The tribute will feature speeches from key members of the group and documentation of Adebanjo’s role in defending democratic institutions in Nigeria.

Pa Reuben Fasoranti, the group’s leader, said: “With Adebanjo’s passing, we have lost a pillar of strength, a fearless crusader, and a man whose voice shook the conscience of this nation.”

Adebanjo’s Legacy

Chief Ayo Adebanjo’s legacy is deeply entrenched in Nigeria’s political evolution. A fierce critic of military rule and bad governance, he consistently advocated for constitutional reforms and devolution of powers to states.

Until his last days, Adebanjo remained active in public discourse, granting interviews, writing articles, and mentoring younger political voices. His commitment to principle over convenience made him one of the most respected figures in Nigeria’s socio-political history.

His death marks the end of an era in Yoruba nationalism and Nigerian statesmanship.

Conclusion

As Nigeria prepares to bid farewell to one of its most enduring political voices, the ceremonies planned by the Adebanjo family offer a chance to reflect on a life lived in service, advocacy, and unrelenting patriotism. Chief Ayo Adebanjo may be gone, but his voice and values will continue to echo in the halls of history and in the hearts of generations to come.