Ohanaeze Ndigbo Mourns Pa Adebanjo, Declares Two Market Days of Mourning
It is with profound sorrow and a heavy heart that Ohanaeze Ndigbo, the preeminent sociocultural organization representing the Igbo people, conveys its deepest condolences following the untimely passing of Pa Ayodele Samuel Adebanjo. This tragic news has struck us with rude shock, as we collectively grapple with the loss of a visionary leader whose commitment to justice and unity was truly remarkable.
In accordance with the cherished customs of the Igbo Nation, Ohanaeze Ndigbo has solemnly declared a period of mourning spanning two traditional market days to honor the memory of this eminent son of Nigeria. His life and contributions demand our utmost respect and remembrance, as he was not merely a leader of Afenifere, the foremost Yoruba sociocultural organization, but also a true friend of the Igbo people. His demise is a profound national loss that reverberates deeply across the historic landscape of our beloved nation.
We recognize Pa Ayodele Samuel Adebanjo’s unwavering dedication to interethnic harmony and unity among the diverse groups that constitute Nigeria. As a distinguished member of the Middle Belt–Southern Nigerian Forum, he exemplified a commitment to fostering collaboration across ethnic lines. His contributions to this collaborative initiative underscored a vision for a more integrated and equitable Nigeria, offering strength and solidarity to the collective efforts of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, PANDEF, and Afenifere.
The legacy of Pa Adebanjo is particularly significant for the Igbo people, who shall forever remember him as a progressive Yoruba elder statesman who courageously abandoned tribal sentiment in favor of fairness and justice. His resolute support for the presidential candidacy of Mr. Peter Obi, an Igbo son, during the contentious 2023 elections, stands as a poignant testament to his patriotism and his commitment to uplifting the aspirations of the Igbo Nation. In an epoch marked by historical rivalries, this act of solidarity was not simply commendable; it was extraordinary.
As we reflect on Pa Adebanjo’s life, it is clear that he fought the noble fight, advocating for a Nigeria devoid of unnecessary suspicions and rivalries. History will surely recount his role as a man of peace, whose efforts were instrumental in bridging the chasms between the Yoruba and Igbo peoples. His legacy will long endure as an inspiring example of transcending ethnic boundaries for a greater cause.
Ohanaeze Ndigbo, with firm conviction, asserts that the robust support offered to the Labour Party and its candidate, Mr. Obi, during the tumultuous political environment, illustrates Pa Adebanjo’s remarkable valor in standing firmly for the Igbo Nation amidst the darkest chapters of our political history. In recognition of his selfless services, we call upon President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the Governors of the Southeast to honor Pa Adebanjo’s legacy by renaming public institutions in his honor. It is our heartfelt request that Dr. Alex Otti, a Governor aligned with the Labour Party, exhibit boldness by renaming an institution of higher education, such as the Abia State College of Education in Arochukwu, or a significant roadway in his name.
Furthermore, Ohanaeze Ndigbo commits to actively participating in all funeral rites for Pa Adebanjo, extending our hands in solidarity with our Yoruba brothers and sisters during this period of mourning.
On behalf of the global family of Igbos, both at home and in the diaspora, Ohanaeze Ndigbo expresses its deepest sympathies to the family of Pa Ayodele Samuel Adebanjo, the leadership of Afenifere, the Oduduwa Nation, and the esteemed Governors of the Southwest. May the Almighty God grant him eternal peace and forgiveness for any of his shortcomings, as he joins the ancestors who have carefully charted the path for our collective future.
Mazi Okechukwu Isiguzoro
Deputy President General
Ohanaeze Ndigbo
