Lagos: Ex-President Goodluck Jonathan and former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar paid condolence visits to the family of late Afenifere Leader, Chief Ayo Adebanjo, on Sunday. During the visit, Jonathan explained the reasons his administration did not implement the recommendations of the 2014 National Conference, citing the turbulent political climate in Nigeria at the time.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Adebanjo died on February 14, 2025, in Lagos at the age of 96. Jonathan and Abubakar were received separately by the late elder statesman’s children, led by Mr. Obafemi Ayo-Adebanjo. Members of the Pan-Yoruba socio-cultural group, Afenifere, guided by Oba Oladipo Olaitan, were also present during the visits.
Jonathan, accompanied by Sierra Leone’s ex-President Ernest Bai Koroma, former PDP Deputy National Chairman Chief Olabode George, and other political figures, arrived at Adebanjo’s Lekki residence at 1:57 p.m. Abubakar arrived around 3:00 p.m., accompanied by PDP chieftains including Chief Dele Momodu and Dr. Abdul-Azeez Adediran, the 2023 PDP Governorship Candidate for Lagos State.
At the meeting, Jonathan described Adebanjo as a leader not only of Afenifere but of the entire nation. He highlighted Adebanjo’s wisdom, courage, and commitment to justice, qualities he believes are essential for national growth. Jonathan emphasized that Adebanjo’s contributions were instrumental in the convening of the 2014 National Conference.
Jonathan explained that many Nigerians were unaware of the significant political turbulence during his administration, including opposition from key legislative members. He stated that this unrest made it unfeasible to present the conference’s recommendations at the time. However, he expressed hope that future governments would review and adopt the recommendations, which he believes remain relevant.
Abubakar also paid tribute to Adebanjo, acknowledging his leadership and the values he embodied. He expressed his condolences to Adebanjo’s family, stating that he had learned much from the late leader’s virtues and was honored to pay his respects.
Mr. Obafemi Ayo-Adebanjo, speaking during Jonathan’s visit, expressed gratitude for Jonathan’s courage in initiating the 2014 National Conference and acknowledged his father’s appreciation for Jonathan’s leadership. He also offered condolences to Jonathan over the recent death of Chief Edwin Clark, a prominent Ijaw leader.
Dr. Sade Ayo-Adebanjo, during Abubakar’s visit, expressed gratitude for his support. Oba Oladipo Olaitan, Acting Leader of Afenifere, commended Jonathan for his humility and simplicity.
