The leadership of Labour Party has described the death of an Afenifere Leader, Pa Ayo Adebanjo, as a rude shock.
National Chairman of the party, Mr Julius Abure, stated this in a statement on Sunday in Abuja.
“For us in Labour Party, Pa Ayo Adebanjo was more than a father and a leader who stood by our party during thick and thin.
“He was most vociferous in his belief in the ideals of the Labour Party and he never gave up on us until his last moment.
“When we look back at his past political disposition, we saw a man who saw the future of Nigeria and who gave his all to ensure that a Nigeria where equity, justice and fair play evolves.
“We saw a fearless leader who shunned all manner of trivialities and tribal sentiments.
“We saw a great advocate for united Nigeria who fearlessly canvassed for true federalism, knowing that a Nigeria with its multi-ethnic nationalities, as presently constituted, would thrive better when power is not confined but liberalised,” he said.
The national chairman said that Adebanjo was a product of struggle and a courageous enigma who stood out during the days of the military dictatorship.
He recalled that the elder statesman, alongside some of his compatriots, led the popular National Democratic Coalition (NADECO) during the struggle to reclaim democracy after the annulment of the June 12, 1993 presidential election.
“It was with pains and tears that he led the vanguard of the other comrades and never retreated until democracy returned in May 1999.
“He shunned every invitation to the dining table and led the struggle while others shared the cake.
“In spite of his age, Pa Ayo Adebanjo was eager to lead another struggle in 2023 after the Labour Party was unjustly robbed during the presidential election.
“A youthful Ayo Adebanjo would have hit the streets, but at his age, he was only loud enough to register his protest. But Nigeria failed him.
“As Nigerians mourn the loss of this great patriot, Labour Party is eternally grateful to God for the selfless, altruistic, humane and noble life Pa Adebanjo lived.
“We celebrate his enduring and inspirational legacy, while urging the present crop of leaders and generations to come to emulate these attributes,” he said.
Abure commiserated with the late Adebanjo’s immediate family and Nigerians in general over his demise, praying God to offer him His bosom for a well-deserved rest. (NAN)
