Abiodun, Gbajabiamila visit Adebanjo’s residence, extol virtues

Gov. Dapo Abiodun of Ogun and the Chief of Staff to the President , Mr Femi Gbajabiamila, on Saturday visited the residence of the late Afenifere Leader, Chief Ayo Adebanjo, to commiserate with his family over the death of their patriarch.

Abiodun arrived at the Lagos home of the Yoruba leader at 4.50 p.m. Gbajabiamila joined him 15 minutes later.

After a meeting with the children of the deceased, Abiodun told newsmen that Adebanjo was part of his life when he started his political career.

The governor said: “He (Adebanjo) was a role model, a father figure to us, he was an iconic Yoruba man who we all became fond of because of his dogged principles.

“He was irrevocably principled, bold, audacious, consistent, fearless, Baba would say it as he was it and as he felt regardless of how anyone feels about it.

“Perhaps, Baba’s training as a lawyer helped his ability to articulate himself unapologetically.

“Baba’s love for the Yoruba race was second to none. He fought for the emancipation of the Yoruba through different platforms.”

Abiodun said that though everyone would miss the late elder statesman, the people were celebrating his life and legacies.

According to him, Adebanjo was one of those voices that would be missed in the country’s political firmament..

In the condolence register, Abiodun wrote: ” Baba, finally, God has called you home. You were bold, consistent, fearless, principled, focused till the very end.

“Your legacies are and will remain enduring for the world and many generations unborn.

“You will be solely missed. We thank God for the impactful life you life. May your soul continue to rest in peace.”

Also, Gbajabiamila praised Adebanjo’s service to mankind and the country.

The former Speaker of the House of Representatives said: “To God be all the glory, we will miss Baba but we are consoled, knowing he rests in Peace.

“Thank you for your service to mankind and to Nigeria,” Gbajabiamila, who declined media interview, wrote in the condolence register.”

NAN also reports that friends, associates and family members have been thronging Adebanjo’s Lekki residence since his passing was announced on Friday afternoon.

Adebanjo died on Friday in his Lagos home at the age of 96.