Frontline politician and candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the 2024 Governorship Election in Edo State, Dr. Asue Ighodalo, has paid glowing tribute to the late Chief Ayo Adebanjo, who passed on last week Friday, at the ripe age of 96, describing him as “the last of the originals”.
Ighodalo, in a statement signed by Erhabor Emokpae in Benin City on Monday, said Pa Adebanjo’s transition marks the end of an era in Nigerian politics and democratic struggle.
Ighodalo, described the late elder statesman as “a fearless fighter, a mentor, and a moral compass, whose unwavering commitment to justice and democracy left an indelible mark on Nigeria’s history.”
Ighodalo, reflecting on his personal relationship with the late Chief Adebanjo, was quoted as saying that the late nonagenarian was more than a political leader as he was a father figure, a trusted guide, and a pillar of wisdom who nurtured and supported a lot of them through the struggles for democracy.
“His passing is a loss to me personally. He was my leader, my mentor, my father in the days of our democracy struggle. He nurtured me, supported me, and stood as a rock and guide through the turbulent waters of our nation’s political journey. His wisdom was boundless, his foresight unmatched, and his courage unshakeable,” Ighodalo said.
Ighodalo stated that as one of the last standing founding members of Afenifere, Chief Adebanjo was a towering figure in Nigerian politics, dedicated to true federalism, equity, and good governance. He said his predictions about the nation’s political trajectory were almost prophetic, a testament to his deep understanding of Nigeria’s complexities.
“Nearly all of his political predictions have come to pass, a testament to his deep understanding of the forces shaping our nation. He warned us, he advised us, he pointed the way forward, not out of self-interest but out of an unyielding love for Nigeria and an uncompromising belief in its potential,” Ighodalo stated.
Ighodalo noted the vacuum his passing has created in Nigeria’s leadership space.
“He was the last of a generation of nationalist giants who sacrificed everything to build a just and fair Nigeria. His passing leaves a void that may never be filled, but his legacy remains a guiding light for those of us who carry on the fight for a better nation.”
Chief Adebanjo’s legacy, according to Ighodalo, will live on in the continued pursuit of justice, equity, and a Nigeria that truly works for all. His courage in speaking truth to power, even when it was unpopular, remains a moral standard for leaders and citizens alike.
“Nigeria has lost a father. But the ideals he fought for, the values he instilled, and the courage he inspired will never die. His spirit will continue to guide us, urging us to be bold, to be just, and to always stand on the right side of history,” Ighodalo concluded.
