Tribute: Adebanjo, A Gladiator Of Truth, Says AfDB President Adesina

President of the African Development Bank Group, AfDB, Dr. Akinwumi Adesina, has described the late Afenifere leader, Pa Ayo Adebanjo, as Nigeria’s gladiator of truth.

Adesina spoke at a Service of Songs organised for late Adebanjo, a courageous leader who spoke the truth to power in Lagos State.

Adebanjo died at the age 96 on February 14, 2025.

In his tribute, Akinwumi described Pa Ayo Adebanjo as one of Nigeria’s foremost leaders, who lived every day of his life, fully, till the age of 96, fighting for a better Nigeria with true federalism.

Adesina's words, “I say celebrate because we wave goodbye to one of Nigeria’s foremost leaders, who lived every day of his life, fully till the age of 96, fighting for a better Nigeria with true federalism. To live long is one thing. To live long and impactfully is another. Pa Ayo Adebanjo lived impactfully long.

“Pa Ayo Adebanjo was Nigeria’s Gladiator of Truth. We celebrate the exit of a national icon, a true conscience of our nation, a democratic gladiator of renowned repute.

“A man who fought in the battle lines to expand the democratic space, to give voice to the forgotten and the marginalised.

“May God comfort your dear wife, Mama Adebanjo, your children, and your grandchildren. May your soul rest in peace in the bosom of God, your maker. Amen."

The Adebanjo family had announced April 30, 2025, as the service of songs to honour the late patriarch