By Ihechi Enyinnaya
Anya-Ndi-Igbo has paid a heartfelt tribute to late Afenifere leader, Chief Ayo Adebanjo, describing him as a leader whose dedication to justice, equity, and collaboration shaped the moral compass of Nigerian society.
A statement released by the group and obtained by Daily Review Online, said Adebanjo’s steadfast commitment to the principles that guided his public life, calling him a patriot of “no mean order.”
Quoting late Dr. Chuba Okadigbo, a noted philosophy scholar who once warned of the dangers of ethnic politics in a multi-ethnic society like Nigeria, Anya-Ndi-Igbo noted that this often leads to mediocre leadership and impedes efficient governance.
The tribute to Chief Adebanjo, however, highlighted that despite the challenges of ethnic divides, he remained a beacon of wisdom and integrity.
The statement noted that Adebanjo, who dedicated his life to advocating for fairness and sound judgment, was not one to shy away from difficult conversations. His principles, often controversial, earned him the respect of those who valued the common good over personal or ethnic interests. Though his stand on various issues earned him abrasive challenges, he remained resolute, grounded in his conviction that his positions were valid and essential for the nation’s progress.
“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,” the tribute read. Chief Adebanjo, it was noted, could have chosen to remain silent in his later years, but he chose to continue advocating for what was right, even in the face of adversity.
The statement emphasized that Adebanjo’s voice—clear, resolute, and unyielding—will be sorely missed by those who believed in the power of integrity and justice. “His resolute and very clear voice will be sorely missed,” it stated, urging for his legacy to live on through the actions and beliefs of those who admired him.
The tribute was signed by prominent figures from various spheres, including Dr. Uma Eleazu, BoT Chair of Anya-Ndi-Igbo; Agbalanze Chike Madueke, President of Aka-Ikenga; Engr. Chris Okoye, President of Anya-Ndi-Igbo; Prof. Elo Amuchazi, President of Igbo Leaders of Thoughts; Prof. Chinedu Nebo, President of Nzuko Umunna; Bishop Obi Onubogu, Chairman, BoT, Alaigho Development Foundation; Dr. Festus Okere, Chairman, World Igbo Congress (WIC); Iyom Josephine Anenih, President of Nkata Ndi Inyom; Mazi Okechukwu Unegbu, President of Otu Oka Iwu (Igbo Lawyers Society Worldwide); Dr. Nwachukwu Anakwenze; Chief Chris Ekeoba Ugodinma, President of the Association of Alaigbo Town Unions, Lagos; and Amadiebube Mbama.
The statement concluded with prayers that Chief Adebanjo be welcomed into the community of the Saints Triumphant, marking the end of a life well-lived in service to truth, justice, and the common good of Nigeria.