- Agency Report
Elder statesman, Afe Babalola (SAN), has described the passing of Afenifere leader, Chief Ayo Adebanjo, at 96, as a great loss to Nigeria and the legal profession.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Babalola, also 96, said this in a statement in Ado-Ekiti on Sunday, titled: ‘Chief Ayo Adebanjo: A Good Heart Has Stopped Beating.’
Babalola said he was deeply shocked upon receiving the news of the passing of “my dear friend, brother, and compatriot, Chief Ayo Adebanjo, a truly distinguished citizen.”
“The departure of this exceptional Afenifere leader reminds one of the timeless words of Ecclesiastes 3:1-8: ‘There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under heaven.’”
He recalled observing Adebanjo in the hallowed Temple of Justice, both in court and beyond, describing him as a hardworking, genial, and rare professional dedicated to excellence.
“The departed compatriot was a multi-talented legal practitioner, an epitome of decency, and a role model. He was a loving father, mentor, and manager of men and resources,” he said.
According to Babalola, Adebanjo was distinguished by his patriotism, unwavering determination, selflessness, and commitment to using his position for the greater good of society.
“He was an engaging personality whose brilliance and professionalism, both at the Bar and in politics, will remain indelible in our collective memory,” he said.
He described Adebanjo as a firm believer in rules, an outstanding mentor, and a man admired for his deep knowledge of the law and willingness to help others.
“As a legal practitioner, he exemplified the four ‘F’s’: frank, firm, fair, and friendly. He was a dogged yet decent fighter, and we will surely miss him,” he said.
Babalola added that Adebanjo was “a cerebral, good-natured, and committed team player who brought peace to himself and those around him.
“The Nigerian Bar and political space have lost a rare and irreplaceable gem who stood and fought for the good of the majority.”
He extended condolences to Ogun, Adebanjo’s family in Ijebuland, Afenifere, the Nigerian Bar Association, and the Yoruba people, mourning the loss of “a man of unquestionable integrity.” NAN