Nigeria Pays Tribute to Pa Ayo Adebanjo, Service of Songs

Lagos, Nigeria – It was an evening of powerful memories, music, and national reflection as dignitaries, political figures, family members, and well-wishers gathered at the Eko Hotel and Suites on Thursday for the Day of Tributes and Service of Songs in honour of the late elder statesman, Pa Ayo Adebanjo.

The grand event, which took place in the expansive Eko Convention Centre, drew an emotional yet celebratory crowd to honour the life, legacy, and enduring impact of one of Nigeria’s most respected Yoruba leaders and voices of conscience. Adebanjo, who passed away at the age of 96, was not only a founding father of Afenifere, the pan-Yoruba socio-political group, but also a relentless advocate for justice, equity, and true federalism in Nigeria.

Nation’s Leaders and Civil Society Pay Homage

The Service of Songs for Pa Ayo Adebanjo was marked by a strong presence of national figures from across political divides. Former President Olusegun Obasanjo, Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi, and Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, were among the prominent attendees. The event also witnessed tributes from representatives of the Nigerian Governors’ Forum, civil society organisations, and youth movements.

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In his tribute, Nobel Laureate Prof. Wole Soyinka described Adebanjo as “a fearless moral compass who never shied away from truth.” Soyinka added, “He remained relevant across generations not because of power or position, but because of the clarity of his convictions and the courage to speak them.”

L-R: Senator Ibikunle Amosun, former governor, Ogun State; Chief Olusegun Osoba, former governor, Ogun State; Dr. Biodun Shobanjo, Chairman, burial planning committee; and Gbenga Daniel, former governor, Ogun State, flanked by the children of Pa Ayo Adebanjo during the Day of Tributes/Service of Songs event for the late Pa Ayo Adebanjo at Eko Hotel on Wednesday, April 30th, 2025

Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State, represented by his deputy, praised Adebanjo’s “unwavering dedication to the Yoruba cause and to national progress.” He called the nonagenarian a “statesman whose voice we always turned to in times of national confusion.”

A Blend of Music, Memories, and Faith

The Service of Songs blended solemn Christian hymns with Yoruba praise music, led by a choir that included voices from Lagos Cathedral and the Cherubim & Seraphim Movement, where Pa Adebanjo once worshipped. Personal stories from grandchildren and family members added warmth to the atmosphere, revealing a man who was not only a political activist but also a devoted father, grandfather, and mentor.

The evening also featured a short documentary chronicling Adebanjo’s life — from his days under Chief Obafemi Awolowo to his bold interventions during recent national debates. Clips of his fiery interviews and public speeches drew rounds of applause from the audience.

Ayo Adebanjo was a Nigerian lawyer, nationalist and co-founder of Afenifere

Calls for Continued Legacy

Many speakers urged younger Nigerians and current leaders to draw inspiration from Pa Adebanjo’s legacy. Peter Obi, in a moving tribute, said, “Nigeria has lost a true icon of democracy. We must pick up the baton where he dropped it — for justice, good governance, and unity.”

Banners at the venue bore powerful quotes from the late sage, including: “I fear no man, only God. I say what is right because Nigeria must be saved.”

Final Farewell

The Day of Tributes and Service of Songs for Pa Ayo Adebanjo will be followed by his final burial ceremony in Ijebu-Ode, Ogun State, where he will be laid to rest beside his late wife, Mama Adenike Adebanjo.

As the event closed with the soulful singing of “It is Well With My Soul,” attendees rose to give a standing ovation.

A final salute to a man whose voice and values will echo through Nigerian history.