A coalition of foremost Igbo groups has joined in mourning Afenifere Leader, Pa Ayo Adebanjo, declaring that ?history will reckon him as a patriot of no mean order?. The coalition, comprising 12 groups, gave the verdict in a statement issued on Saturday, February 15, 2025 ? a day after Pa Adebajo died in his Lekki Lagos residence at age 96.

The statement started by quoting noted Philosophy scholar, late Dr. Chuba Okadigbo, who once suggested that, in multi ethnic Nigeria, ?ethnic politics arrests talent and skills, and springs onto the centre, led-leadership and/or mediocre leadership. This phenomenon impedes innovative and efficient government, and contributes to political instability.?

Paying glowing to Adebanjo, the coalition said that he ?is a Nigerian leader because his public life guided, inspired, encouraged and influenced fair minded people towards the common good of all the people of Nigeria.

?He advocated for justice, equity, collaboration and sound judgement. His position cost abrasive challenge who play corner games as central sports but he took them on the chin, because he was convinced of the validity of the principles that underpin his positions.?

Continuing, the coalition said: ?God blessed him with a long life. He used it to do God?s work by speaking the truth without being compelled or induced to. Chief Adebanjo had earned his pips and could have remained silent or out-source his position, but remained steadfast till God called him over. He has joined the pantheon of the great and history will reckon him as a patriot of no mean order:

?Who meant whatever he said;

?Practiced what he preached; and

?Asked others to do as he does and did.

?His resolute and very clear voice will be sorely missed.

?May the Angels of God welcome him to the community of the Saints Triumphant?.

The statement was signed by Anya Ndi Igbo BoT Chair, Dr. Uma Eleazu, and President, Engr. Chris Okoye.

Others are Agbalanze Chike Madueke, President, Aka-Ikenga; Prof. Elo Amuchazi, President, Igbo Leaders of Thoughts; Prof Chinedu Nebo, President, Nzuko Umunna; Bishop Obi Onubogu, Chairman, BoT, Alaigbo Development Foundation; Dr. Festus Okere, Chairman, World Igbo Congress (WIC); Iyom Josephine Anenih, President, Nkata Ndi Inyom; Mazi Okechukwu Unegbu, President, Out Oka Iwu (Igbo Lawyers Society Worldwide); Chief Chris Ekeoba Ugodinma, President, Association of Alaigbo Town Unions, Lagos; Dr. Nwachukwu Anakwenze, President, Igbo World assembly (IWA); Amadiebube Mbama, Chairman, Global Igbo Leaders.; and Dr. Mrs. Uzoama Josephine Aguoji, President, Council of Igbo States in America (CISA).